Jamaica’s youth most at risk - HIV/AIDS
Published:Monday | December 1, 2008 | 12:15 PM
Health Minister Rudy Spencer said more efforts are needed to empower Jamaica\'s youth to make sensible decisions about sex.
His comment comes as the country observes World AIDS Day under the theme ‘Lead-Empower-Deliver.’
The government has decided to make youth its national focus, as data have revealed that they are most at risk at contracting HIV/AIDS.
Statistics show that between 1995 and 2006, HIV infection doubled in the age group 10 to 24.
As of June 2007, there were over 200 reported AIDS cases among adolescents.
AIDS is the second leading cause of death for youths between the ages of 15 and 24.
Prime Minister Bruce Golding is also expressing concern about the number of children engaging in sexual activities.
The Prime Minister and the Heath Minister were speaking during a leadership breakfast held at the Hilton Kingston Hotel this morning.