Here’s a stat that might stun you: in 2008, philanthropic giving ensured 2.4 billion condoms were distributed worldwide.

The number is impressive, but now consider this: by 2015, some experts estimate that more than 18 billion condoms will be needed worldwide to meet global HIV prevention and family planning needs.

The takeaway? Despite the best efforts of many – access to condoms is still fairly limited in many parts of the world, and often in the places that need them most.

The benefits of the almighty condom are fairly well documented. If used properly, an effective condom can prevent unwanted pregnancies and stop the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

Teenagers and adults aged 15 to 65 should receive universal HIV screening to prevent the spread of infection and to get those who are infected into treatment faster, according to new recommendations from the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF).

The task force also found all pregnant women should be screened for HIV, including women who are in labor but whose HIV status is unknown.

According to University of Minnesota infectious disease expert Timothy Schacker, M.D., the recommendations could be a positive step in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

Pamela Skinner, Ph.D., associate professor in the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, and longtime collaborator Liz Connick, M.D., professor at the University of Colorado Denver, have been awarded a five-year research grant totaling more than $3.7 million from the National Institutes of Health …