Why is so much attention directed at HIV/AIDS education in the public schools?
Someday scientists may develop a vaccine to prevent HIV infection. Until they do, the only way to prevent the spread of HIV and to halt the AIDS epidemic is to educate those at greatest risk of infection. Adolescents are a high-risk population. Their sexual behavior often includes intercourse with more than one partner and infrequent use of condoms, making them more vulnerable than adults to HIV infection. Young people generally are more inclined to take risks than adults and often do not consider the long-term consequences of their actions. The New York State Department of Education requires age-appropriate HIV/AIDS education from grades K through 12 to ensure that all young people have the knowledge, motivation and ability to follow a healthy lifestyle and avoid behaviors that put them at risk for HIV infection.
