South African AIDS Campaign Targets Pre-Teen Sex

In an effort to stem the spread of HIV among young people, AIDS activists in South Africa are focusing on the risks of starting sexual activity too early. On average, South African children begin engaging in sexual activity at age 12, although the official age of consent is 16. South Africa is also plagued by high rates of rape, and some people believe the myth that having sex with a virgin can cure a man with AIDS. LoveLife -- an AIDS organization established two years ago with funding from the Kaiser Family Foundation, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, UNICEF, and others -- is working to halve the incidence of HIV infection among 15- to 20-year-olds within five years, targeting 12- to 17-year-olds with aggressive television advertisements and education and awareness programs.