The Ghana AIDS Commission has shed light on why condom use remains low among many Ghanaian men, citing a combination of cultural, social, and personal factors. The revelations are part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen sexual health education and curb the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the country.
According to Dr. Prosper Akanbong, Director-General of the Commission, reluctance to use condoms is a major barrier in public health campaigns, despite increased awareness and easy access to protection. Many men continue to avoid condoms due to misconceptions, social pressure, and personal beliefs that influence their sexual choices.
Among the key reasons highlighted are the perception that condoms reduce sexual pleasure, cultural expectations surrounding masculinity, and stigma attached to condom use. In some communities, using a condom is wrongly associated with mistrust or infidelity, which discourages both partners from practicing safe sex. Health experts warn that these misconceptions put individuals and their partners at greater risk of infection.
Dr. Akanbong stressed that improving condom usage requires more than just making them available. Community engagement, education, and open discussions about sexual health are essential to dispel myths and promote safer practices. Targeted education for men, young people, and couples can help foster responsible sexual behavior and reduce the incidence of STIs and unintended pregnancies.
The Commission is also working on initiatives to enhance comfort and accessibility, including offering larger condom sizes to meet user preferences and ensure a better fit. These measures aim to address complaints from users who avoid condoms due to discomfort or perceived unsuitability.
Despite ongoing challenges, Ghana’s health authorities remain committed to increasing condom acceptance across the country. The Ghana AIDS Commission continues to encourage individuals, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to actively promote condom use as a critical tool for sexual health and disease prevention.
By tackling misconceptions and creating a supportive environment for responsible sexual behavior, the Commission believes Ghana can make significant progress in reducing the spread of HIV and other infections while protecting the well-being of its citizens.
Source: Thepressradio.com
