Nearly 1 in 3 Canadians have never been tested for an STI

Nov 29 2018, 4:57 am

While 70% of Canadians believe that HIV is still a problem today, nearly 1 in 3 have never been tested for an STI themselves.

Those are the findings of a recent survey of Canadians from coast to coast, which was conducted by condom manufacturer Durex, along with Vice Canada.

This, despite the fact the survey also found over 20% of Canadians are having more “frequent, random sex” than their US counterparts but 30% still don’t feel comfortable speaking about STD/STIs with their partner or potential partner, for fears that it will “freak them out and scare them.”

The survey results come on the cusp of World Aids Day (Saturday, December 1), and to mark the occasion, Durex has announced a new partnership with (RED) – a nonprofit organization that partners with brands to raise money to fight HIV/AIDS in Africa through the Global Fund.

Beginning today, consumers around the world will be able to purchase a DUREX RED condom, and funds raised from sales will go directly towards a program in South Africa, where 7.2 million people are currently living with HIV.

Known as the ‘Keeping Girls in School’ program, the initiative aims to reduce new HIV infections and pregnancies among young women through encouraging
girls to stay in education and improving access to sexual health and reproductive services.

Swedish pop music sensation Zara Larsson leant her voice to the project.

“For the first time ever, you can literally have sex and save lives,” she said. “It empowering that we can all help to protect ourselves by having safe sex, and at the same time, join the fight to end AIDS through helping girls in South Africa who really
need our support.”

As part of the campaign, Durex, will make a minimum donation of $5 million to The Global Fund via the (DUREX) RED partnership.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will match this, meaning a total of  $10 million minimum will be donated to the cause.

“It is exhilarating for (RED) to partner with a global brand like Durex in such a provocative, inspiring and creative way,” said (RED) CEO Deborah Dugan CEO. “Thank you to all at Durex for bringing this important campaign to people and places all around the world.”

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