ABC helpfully perpetuates the myth that smut is art by identifying the performers as “actors” and “actresses.”  Several of the “actresses” inform us that their trade is “safe” because performers are tested every 30 days by a private foundation, so, not to worry.

ABC does not bother asking them embarrassing questions about the efficacy of this approach, although Eric Strauss’s fairly comprehensive accompanying article discusses an HIV epidemic in 2004, after which the “industry” briefly adopted STD testing and condom requirements. The article duly notes that health officials are concerned that the system is voluntary and compliance is iffy.  Strauss cites several STDs that are common but treatable, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, and notes that, “These painful diseases are treatable by drugs and are not life threatening, but are extremely painful and if untreated can lead to serious complications.”

There is no mention of the most common STD, human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes cervical cancer and kills more than 4,000 American women annually.  Some might call that life threatening.  

Well, enough downer topics. Bored with all of this, the jaded ABC News Web site viewer can turn to another health-oriented feature, “Lingerie Model’s ‘Secret.’” It’s about model Alessandra Ambrosio, whose boyfriend has gotten her pregnant. To help viewers understand this situation, ABC links to a runway slide show of other Victoria’s Secret models in various stages of undress.

I just thought of a credible excuse for ABC’s inability to intercept Diane Keaton’s f-bomb:  The 14-year-old boy that ABC hired to pick stuff for their Web site and who doubles as the quality monitor on GMA was grooving on the ABC News entertainment pages at the time.

Well, it’s not a good reason, but it’s a reason.