New "Sailor Moon"-themed contraceptives are the Japanese Ministry of Health's weapon of choice for sexual education. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare had just released 60,000 pink Sailor Moon-branded condoms. It plans to distribute the contraceptives in sexual education events nationwide.
"Sailor Moon" creator Naoko Takeuchi is also working with the government and its plans to make the Japanese public aware of sexual diseases, the importance of contraceptive use and being checked for possible sexually-transmitted diseases such as syphilis and V.D.
According to Qnews.com.au, the "Sailor Moon"-themed contraceptives would include a brochure for further sexual education It also has the drawn animation of Takeuchi explaining safe sex and clinic locations in Japan.
Anime and manga are deeply rooted in Japanese culture -- even more than how Western cartoons embed themselves. Anime and manga exist for toddlers, young adults, yuppies and even the elderly. Anime and manga are ways the Japanese advertise and market certain products. Reported by TheMarySue.com, Japan's McDonald's chain even used a full-on animation to bolster its recruitment drive.
"Sailor Moon" is an iconic 90s anime character whose series aired from August 20, 1991 to 1997 as "Codename: Sailor V". American video distributor Viz Media had licensed the anime and translated it into English for release in North America. The iconic "Sailor Moon" is known worldwide for its transformation sequences, pretty characters, hilarious storylines and bizarre enemies.
The fame of the super girl group is still aflame in the newest "Sailor Moon Crystal" on its third season. While no actual date has been set, the "Sailors" would be facing newer enemies and more adventures.
Strange or not for countries that rarely use cartoons for government public announcements, Japan's use of "Sailor Moon" would be extremely effective to raise STD awareness in the country. Given her prominence in Japan's mainstream media, the fictional character is indeed the excellent spokesperson.
