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Are Condoms Safe?
A spokesman from the rubber
chemistry industry answers
The Washington Times, Wednesday April 22, 1992
My only comment is to point out that the rubber comprising
latex condoms has intrinsic voids about 5 microns (0.0002 inches) in size. Since this is
roughly 10 times smaller than sperm, the latter we effectively blocked in ideal
circumstances.
The 12 percent failure rate of condoms in preventing
pregnancy is attributable to in situ cracking, removal. ozone deterioration from improper
sealing, manufactured defects, etc.
Contrarily, the AIDS virus is only 0.1 micron (4 millionths
of an inch) in size. Since this is a factor of 50 smaller than the voids inherent in
rubber, the virus can readily pass through the condom should it find a passage.
A reluctance to stake one's life on the ability of a condom
to prevent HIV infection bespeaks wisdom, not discrimination.
C.M. Roland
Editor. Rubber Chemistry Land Technology
Washington
Used with permission.
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