South Africa: Understanding youth culture is key

Over 60 percent of HIV/AIDS infections in South Africa occur before the age of 25, a recent report from the South African University of Cape Town has revealed.

The report focuses on high risk sexual activity among the youth and makes particular reference to South Africa.

HIV/AIDS awareness programmes aimed at promoting safer sex practices should come from understanding youth sexual culture, the report suggests.

Moreover, the report warns that unless steps are taken to challenge socio-economic conditions which support high-risk sexual behaviour, HIV/AIDS education is not likely to make much of a difference. (Source: IRIN, Johannesburg, 15 January 2003)

To access the report: http://web.uct.ac.za/depts/cssr/papers/wp9.pdf