Sex Education Programs Focusing on ‘Safe Sex’ Represent ‘Sensible Approach’ to HIV Prevention in U.S., Editorial Says

The United States may have "let its guard down" in the fight against AIDS and let "complacency about the disease set in," a Rock Hill Herald editorial says. The disease is a "global problem" that "can't be fought in isolation," the editorial says. People in the United States "at least can arm their children with the knowledge they need to cut the risk" of contracting HIV, the editorial says, adding that sex education programs with a "primary focus" on "safe sex" are a "sensible approach" to preventing the spread of the disease. Although sexual abstinence "may be the only foolproof approach" to preventing HIV, "safe sex is the next-best alternative and one that should be taught even to younger teens," the editorial says, adding that such an approach also helps to protect against other sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancies (Rock Hill Herald, 8/3).