The 2010 World Cup will distribute 3.5 million female condoms to attendees this summer to prevent sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. The month-long event, from June 11 to July 11 in South Africa, offers 3 million tickets for sale.

“Providing FC2 female condoms for the 2010 World Cup demonstrates a commitment to supporting HIV/AIDS prevention efforts,” said O.B. Parrish, chairman and CEO of the Female Health Company, makers of the second-generation female condom (FC2). “This commitment is particularly critical in light of the increasing numbers of females affected by AIDS.”

The World Health Organization states that HIV/AIDS is now the leading cause of death worldwide for women ages 15 to 44.

Men who have sex with men also use the FC2 as part of safer-sex practices.