PIP: As condoms are an important defense against the spread of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), their quality is an important public health concern. Condom storage, manufacturing techniques, and national condom quality standards all are factors that affect condom quality and, consequently, their prophylactic capability. Under optimal storage conditions, condoms can be expected to last about 5 years, but optimal standards are not realistic in many countries. Condoms can be impaired during their display in retail outlets by mechanical damage from handling and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunlight or fluorescent lamps. UV can reduce significantly the strength of condoms in transparent packages in only a few hours. Opaque packaging prevents this form of deterioration. Condom deterioration also can be caused by prolonged condom storage in wallets or tight pockets. Several studies indicate that condom deterioration is likely to result in breakage during use. Dr. Michael Free, director of Path, determined in a recent study that the longer condoms were exposed to UV light, the more prone they were to breaking during use. Due to the fact that available data suggest that environmental factors in many developing countries may reduce the effectiveness of condoms as prophylactics against sexually transmitted diseases, the World Health Organization (WHO) is developing new guidelines for condoms specifically intended to slow the spread of AIDS in these countries. FHI is conducting research to develop a more effective condom. Improved condom storage conditions, higher condom quality, and strict condom quality standards will help ensure that all condom users will be better protected against human immunodeficiency virus and other sexually transmitted diseases.