Differences between married men and women in awareness of AIDS are greatest in West Africa. Knowledge of Condoms Most people who have heard of AIDS also know about condoms. In general, among married people who have heard of AIDS, men are more likely than women to know about condoms. A person who reports knowing about condoms nevertheless may not know much about them, including how to use them correctly. In Mexico and elsewhere, condoms are sold in pharmacies and other retail outlets.
Many people know that condoms prevent STIs.
No STI, including HIV, can pass through an intact latex condom. Knowledge that Using Condoms Can Prevent AIDS In the DHS, without mentioning condoms, one question asks respondents who have heard of AIDS what steps a person can take to avoid it. In all surveyed countries a majority of never-married men who are aware of AIDS and know about condoms also know a source of condoms. In 11 of 13 surveyed countries the same is true of never-married women. Married women are generally least likely to know a source of condoms.