Bangkok: The AIDS Health Care Foundation (AHF) is sounding the alarm on the high rates of HIV, syphilis, and gonorrhea infections among Thai youths, emphasizing the urgent need for increased awareness and use of condoms.
According to Thai News Agency, data from 2023 indicated a concerning number of 9,083 new HIV infections in Thailand, with 4,236 cases, or 46.6 percent, occurring among those aged 15-24. Bangkok, in particular, shows a significant number of new infections, with 1,095 cases in 2024, of which 478 were youths aged 15-24. The rising trend in sexually transmitted infections is further highlighted by findings from the Bangkok Digital Disease Surveillance Platform, which reported that 1,223 youths aged 15-29 contracted syphilis and 850 contracted gonorrhea, marking high infection rates.
In response, the AIDS Health Care Foundation (Thailand), in collaboration with Impulse Bangkok and Don Mueang Chaturachinda School, organized the International Condom Day 2025 event under the theme 'Just Use It.' The initiative aims to educate youths on the importance of condom use as a preventive measure against sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, and unwanted pregnancies. The event, held at the Don Mueang Chaturachinda School Auditorium in Bangkok, attracted over 700 students and featured notable attendees, including Lt. Suthira Dechkamphu, Dr. Yugang Bao, Mr. Krisayam Arayawongchai, and influencer Dr. Kong Kongnapat Chirojthanaphong.
Mr. Krisayam Arayawongchai, Director of AIDS Health Care Foundation (Thailand), emphasized the need for urgent action. The 2024 survey on health behaviors revealed that only 43% of youths consistently used condoms, while 24% did not use them at all. This alarming statistic underscores the necessity for educational programs and awareness campaigns focused on promoting self-responsibility and social responsibility among youths.
Lt. Col. Suthira Dechkamphu, from Don Mueang Chaturachinda School, highlighted the school's commitment to fostering an environment conducive to learning about sexual health. The school, with 1,067 students, aims to instill knowledge that students can apply practically, reinforcing their responsibility towards themselves and society.
The event also featured a special session by Dr. Kong Kongnapat Jirotthanaphong, who discussed sexology, positive attitudes, and the critical role of condom use, concluding with a mini-concert by the band 'FOOL STEP' from Genie Records, leaving students both informed and entertained.