Much ado about vending machines

Comment on "Shocking sights in schools" (China Daily, Aug 28 )

Students in Shenzhen and Guangzhou high schools may seem too young and immature to get condoms from vending machines, but many of them need protection at an early age because that's when they are most inquisitive and more prone to contracting sexual diseases or becoming pregnant.

In the United States, many 12 to15-year-olds are experimenting and starting to become sexually active despite the advice of their teachers and parents to the contrary. US high schools do not have condom-vending machines but they do have mandatory health classes for students. These classes help students learn more about their sexual health and how to make a informed decision.

Making condoms available in vending machines should not be seen as strange or shocking because students need to know that condoms are not a bad thing. The use of condoms will help prevent teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. And vending machines will help alleviate the embarrassment of students who are too shy to buy condoms elsewhere.

Kellie Giordano, on China Daily website

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(China Daily 09/25/2012 page9)