Posts
A study conducted by the Department
of Health states that online social networking is contributing to the rise in
cases of HIV/AIDS in the Philippines.
Dr. Eric Tayag, director of the
National Epidemiology Center, told a seminar for media on HIV/AIDS on October
18 that burgeoning social networking sites that cater to those looking for sex
partners have been pinpointed as one of the major factors in the rise of
HIV/AIDS cases in the Philippines. The study conducted by the Department of
Health last year found that sites are creating new opportunities, particularly
for men having sex with men to meet sex partners.
The study involved 180 MSM
respondents, of which 124 admitted to using online social network sites for
dating and sex, while 133 claimed to have had sex with individuals who they had
contacted through online network sites. Those who engaged in sex were between
the ages of 14 and 36. Approximately 79 percent of the study participants, or
143, claimed to have used condoms during sexual encounters, but the majority
said they do not use them consistently because they are not always available.
Others said they do not like to use them, partners would not allow them to use
them, or they do not think it is necessary to use one.
The Friends of AIDS Foundation is
dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and
empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV
virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org.
TOGETHER WE REMAIN STRONG!
