Used Condoms Recycled Into Hair Bands In China

Beijing, China (AHN) - Health officials in mainland China express alarm over reports that a company in Southern China was recycling condoms as hair bands, which they say could pass over the sexually transmitted diseases to whoever will use the recycled condoms, report said Tuesday.

Latest report shows that in Dongguan and Guangzhou cities in Guangdong southern province, Chinese-made recycled products such as headbands and rubber bands made of used condoms were seen being openly sold in local markets and beauty shops.

Report said, "These cheap and colorful rubber bands and hair ties sell well ... threatening the health of local people."

In a recent report, it is said that recycled condoms may still contain bacteria and viruses, which could harm the health of those who will use the rubber products.

Local dermatologist who only gave his surname as Dong said, "People could be infected with AIDS, (genital) warts or other diseases if they hold the rubber bands or strings in their mouths while waving their hair into plaits or buns."

A government official also said that using recycled condoms was illegal and should be stopped before it could harm people.