Untitled (Press, 15 September 1987)

A.I.D.S. Awareness Week was set to commence on 19 September 1987, highlighting the importance of controlling the spread of the disease through measures such as limiting sexual partners and using condoms when necessary. Dr Poutasi emphasised that while many people were aware of these preventative strategies, the actual adoption of these behaviours was lacking. A recent survey conducted to assess sexual behaviour revealed that only 16 per cent of sexually active individuals had modified their sexual practices based on their knowledge of A.I.D.S. The survey findings indicated that more than half of the respondents had indeed reduced their number of sexual partners, and over one-third reported an increase in condom usage. However, a concerning statistic emerged: 54 per cent of sexually active single individuals reported never using condoms. Dr Chetwynd, a colleague of Dr Poutasi, noted that the portion of the survey addressing sexual behaviour was likely the least accurate, as personal questions about sexual habits were sensitive and often answered untruthfully. This segment of the survey aimed to create benchmarks for comparison with future research on sexual behaviour and A.I.D.S. awareness. The overall results underscored the continuing need for effective education and outreach regarding A.I.D.S. prevention, illustrating a gap between knowledge and action in the community.

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