Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2005. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
|
|
Associated Press - November 29, 2005
The Vatican's Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care issued a message for World AIDS Day, which is marked every Dec. 1.
In it, the Vatican said sexual transmission remains the most important pathway of infection ù even more than by mother to child and blood transfusions.
"This is greatly fostered by a kind of pansexual culture that devalues sexuality, reducing it to mere pleasure without any further meaning," it said.
"Radical prevention in this field must come from a correct conception and practice of sexuality, where sexual activity is understood in its deep meaning as a total and absolute expression of the fecund giving of love."
It said that is found in keeping sex exclusive to marriage and in intensifying the strength of the family.
The Vatican's opposition to condoms has been criticized by those who advocate their use as a way to help combat the spread of the HIV virus. However, several prelates have suggested that using condoms that could prevent a death may be the lesser evil.
Last week organizers of the annual Christmas concert at the Vatican said a Brazilian singer who promoted condom use in an anti-AIDS campaign had been dropped from the lineup. Officials said Daniela Mercury's appearance was canceled for fear that she would publicly promote condom use while at the Vatican.
051129
AP051160
Copyright © 2005 - Associated Press. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the AP Permissions Desk.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Elton John AIDS Foundation UK, the National Library of Medicine, AIDS Walk of Orange County, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2005. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2005. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .