[procaare] Neglect contributory factor to the spread of HIV/AIDS

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Neglect contributory factor to the spread of HIV/AIDS
-[Healthlink],(15.10.03.
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Neglect and under-funding of adolescents' sexual and reproductive health needs are some of
the problems perpetuating the spread of HIV/AIDS, other sexually transmitted diseases and
early pregnancy. This is according to the State of World Population 2003 report released
in Pretoria.

The theme of the report, "Making 1 Billion Count: Investing in Adolescents' Health and
Rights", aims to highlight the challenges and risks faced by adolescents regarding
HIV/AIDS.

The report states that 50% of the world's population is under 25 years of age and they
face the risks to their health and well-being. These include the HIV/AIDS pandemic
ravaging the world. The report points out that investing in young people will yield
generous returns for generations to come.

However, most often than not, they are exposed to sexually explicit images. Yet they lack
basic information on reproductive health and how to protect themselves from early
pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.

The report explores the underlying assumptions about the disease, showing that youths, who
have lost parents due to HIV/AIDS, are particularly vulnerable to the infection
themselves. Some of the recommendations it highlights are that there should be adequate
educational programmes, information and health services for young people. It also
recommends that more money should be channeled into reproductive health programmes.

(Source: SABC October 09, 2003). Read the full story in the State of the World Population
2003 report)
Web: http://www.unfpa.org/swp/swpmain.htm

HealthLink Bulletin 15/10/2003
Web: http://www.hst.org.za

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