The misconception that AIDS is only a threat sex workers and those involved in non-heterosexual relationships is a thing of the past, and the rising number of those affected in certain parts of the world begs for new and creative ways to address the issue, like the 'Use Rubber at Night' playing cards.
Graphic design student Shantanu Suman developed the Use Rubber at Night deck as a way to bring safe sex awareness to truck drivers in India, where over 5.1 million people are living with AIDS. After reading a study by the Center for Media Studies indicating that truck drivers are one of the country's largest groups of AIDS carriers, Suman sought out a way to address the issue directly. "The fact that cards games are the most common recreational activity among the truckers in India, led to the inception of this set of playing card design," explains the designer on his website. Changing the common truck driver phrase, "Use dipper at night" to fit the cause, Suman was able to get the message across in a simple and direct manner.
With a clever name and complex designs that can be appreciated by all, Use Rubber at Night is a thoughtful and practical way to address a very serious, but preventable problem around the world.
AIDS Prevention Playing Cards
'Use Rubber at Night' is Aimed at India's Truck Drivers
Trend Themes
1. Safe Sex Awareness - The development of the 'Use Rubber at Night' playing cards demonstrates the trend of addressing safe sex awareness in innovative and engaging ways.
2. Targeted Health Messaging - The Use Rubber at Night deck showcases the trend of targeting specific groups, such as truck drivers, with health messaging to address pressing issues.
3. Creative Prevention Strategies - The Use Rubber at Night playing cards exemplify the trend of implementing creative strategies to prevent the spread of diseases like AIDS.
Industry Implications
1. Graphic Design - The graphic design industry can leverage the concept of the Use Rubber at Night deck to create visually appealing educational materials for various health awareness campaigns.
2. Entertainment - The entertainment industry can explore the potential of incorporating health messaging into popular recreational activities, like playing cards, to promote important social causes.
3. Transportation - The transportation industry, specifically trucking companies, can collaborate with health organizations to implement innovative initiatives that raise awareness about diseases and promote safe practices among truck drivers.