Miss Universe joins HIV prevention campaign

A new campaign to help stop the spread of HIV in Central America is being supported by the current Miss Universe.

Dayana Mendova, who won the title in 2008, has been appointed spokeswoman for the PSI-affiliated Hombres de Verdad campaign.

It is a scheme that intends to increase the awareness of the problem of AIDS in the area and especially get the message through to men.

Speaking in Nicaragua, Ms Mendova said: "Not all men are the same, but all men can protect themselves [from HIV/AIDS]."

By attempting to "redefine traditional masculinity as it relates to the spread of HIV", the project hopes to reach men that otherwise would not have taken any notice about the issues at hand.

One of the groups working on the project is the Pan-American Social Marketing Organisation, which utilises research to ensure each individual is advised to take preventative measures that are personal to their own needs.