The Food and Drug Administration has been asked to modify thewarning labels on condom packaging by President Bush.
Bush asked that the labels include a warning stating thatcondoms might not prevent the spread of human papilloma virus(HPV), commonly called genital warts.
Some argue that the warning is useless, as no one will read themessage. Others argue that condoms effectively prevent the spreadof sexually transmitted infections.
Abstinence groups claim the best way to prevent the disease isto not engage in any sexual activity.
In the end, everyone can benefit from this warning. Abstinencegroups can show that not every disease is preventable. Those whosay no one will read the message will not be hurt if it is includedon condom packaging.
By including this information, those who are engaging in sexualactivity responsibly will know the limits of condoms. Those who donot want to read the fine print are already taking a risk.
What this message can also do is benefit the condommanufacturers. These companies will be admitting what their productcan or cannot do, which is proof in advertising. Though peoplemight act as though they know everything about preventing sexuallytransmitted infections, chances are they do not. Having moreinformation could prevent people from engaging in activity thatcould be hazardous to their health.
Even if a handful of people do not spread the virus because ofthis warning, it has served part of its purpose. If condommanufacturers can feel better about their product because it willbe advertising the truth, the warning has served its secondpurpose.
Information, though some might see it as useless, serves theentire population. By showing a product's capabilities, it can helppeople make more educated choices. No one loses in thatsituation.
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