The forthcoming installation of condom dispensers throughout campus shows that the University has a commitment to promoting public health.
Ten condom dispensers will soon be installed in locations across campus such as the Student Union and the Rams Head Recreation Center.
Although free sex supplies such as condoms are already provided on campus by Campus Health, placing these dispensers in locations around campus provides for more anonymity and better accessibility.
The new dispensers located in bathrooms will allow for students to get condoms in private, and encourage those who might not be so keen to receive a condom to do so, without bringing unwanted attention to themselves.
And considering that some students don’t regularly use condoms during intercourse, a condom-provision system like this is needed in order to improve the sexual health of college students.
Sexually transmitted diseases amount to a major public health problem, with 19 million new STD infections occurring each year. Young adults are especially susceptible, given that nearly half of these new infections are occurring among peers from the ages of 15 to 24.
In addition, STDs cost the nation about $17 billion in health care costs per year.
Prevention is key for upkeep of one’s sexual health, and placing these dispensers across campus makes it easier to practice safe sex and, therefore, helps prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
It is never too late for college students to learn a lesson in sexual health education.
