In light of recent global health challenges, including the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), there is growing concern about the availability of essential health resources such as antiretroviral drugs (ARVs).
For college and university students, many of whom lead sexually active lives, this issue becomes even more pressing. Statistics show that approximately 60-70% of university students engage in unprotected sex, putting them at increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies.
Given this, it’s crucial that universities and colleges prioritize the promotion of condom use as part of their health and wellness programs.
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Condoms are one of the most effective contraceptive methods, with a 98% success rate in preventing pregnancies when used correctly. They provide an important option for not only married couples but also young people, including students, who may not be ready for parenthood and in need of unwanted pregnancies.
It is also are highly effective at reducing the transmission of STIs, including HIV/AIDS, gonorrhea, and syphilis. By creating a physical barrier that prevents the exchange of bodily fluids, condoms play a key role in safeguarding students’ health.
Considering the financial instability among students; they are inexpensive and widely available, which makes them an accessible option for everyone, particularly for students on tight budgets. Many public universities provide condoms for free on campus, ensuring that students have easy access to them without the need for prescriptions or additional costs.
Unlike some other contraceptive methods, condoms do not alter a person’s hormones and do not carry the side effects often associated with birth control pills or injections, such as weight gain or mood swings. The only concern for some individuals is latex allergies, in which case condoms made from alternative materials like polyisoprene can be used.
They are also advantageous because they can be used without prior planning. In emergency situations, when other forms of contraception may not be available or feasible, condoms provide an immediate solution to prevent unwanted pregnancies and STIs.
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Condoms are not just for heterosexual couples; they are also essential for individuals in same-sex relationships. This inclusivity makes condoms an important tool for preventing the spread of STIs among all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender.
As the health and safety of students remain a top priority, it is crucial for colleges and universities to continue promoting the use of condoms as a fundamental part of sexual health education. By ensuring students have access to affordable, effective protection, institutions can play a vital role in reducing the spread of STIs and preventing unintended pregnancies.
According to THE ELIZABETH GLASER PEDIATRIC AIDS FOUNDATION , in Kenya; Approximately 51% of all new HIV infections in Kenya are among adolescents and youth.
It is also estimated that there are 133,455 adolescents living with HIV in Kenya. There are also 18,004 new infections and 2,797 deaths among adolescents 10-19 years annually.
Access to and uptake of HIV testing and counselling (HTS) by adolescents is significantly lower than by adults, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage rates are lower for adolescents than for any other age group of persons living with HIV, signaling a need for targeted adolescent programs.
By Samwel Othieno and Faith Oloo, Rongo University.
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