All of the above can increase the risk of HIV infection for men themselves, as well as women. In general, people of both sexes lead lives that pose no danger to themselves or others. When some men fail to protect themselves and others, it is often due to social and cultural factors. Family, religion, customs and beliefs, power structures, gender roles and relations, and social expectations all play their part in encouraging men to take risks and to disregard women's feelings and needs. In short, men's risk-taking behaviour may be better understood when viewed from a broader social perspective.
Men can use their masculinity as a powerful force for change.
Focusing on men, therefore, does not mean ignoring women. Prevention programmes for girls and women need to continue and expand, but without parallel programmes for boys and men, they will have little impact. In protecting women and children from HIV infection, men must also be protected. The best solution is for men and women to work together when they can and separately when they must, always remembering that the efforts of one cannot succeed without the efforts of the other. Masculinity 'Throughout the world, 'masculinity' is often associated with the 'male drive', greater physical strength, power as well as many problem behaviours such as violence and sexual risk-taking.