Why is AIDS education for young people important?

Why is AIDS education for young people important?

AIDS education for young people plays a vital role in global efforts to end the AIDS epidemic. Despite the fact that HIV transmission can be prevented, each year hundreds of thousands of young people infected with the virus; in 2009 alone, there were 890,000 new HIV infections amongst young people aged 15-24.¹

“In 2009 alone, there were 890,000 new HIV infections amongst young people aged 15-24.”

Providing young people with basic AIDS education enables them to protect themselves from becoming infected. Young people are often particularly vulnerable to sexually transmitted HIV, and to HIV infection as a result of drug-use. Acquiring knowledge and skills encourages young people to avoid or reduce behaviours that carry a risk of HIV infection.^{2 3 4} Even for young people who are not yet engaging in risky behaviours, AIDS education is important for ensuring that they are prepared for situations that will put them at risk as they grow older.⁵

AIDS education also helps to reduce stigma and discrimination, by dispelling false information that can lead to fear and blame. This is crucial for prevention, as stigma often makes people reluctant to be tested for HIV. Somebody who is not aware of their HIV infection is more likely to pass the virus on to others. AIDS education can help to prevent this, halting stigma and discrimination before they have an opportunity to grow.