Selected behaviors that increase risk for HIV infection, other sexually transmitted diseases, and unintended pregnancy among high school students--United States, 1991.

Abstract

In April-May 1991 departments of education in 23 states and 10 cities conducted Youth Risk Behavior Surveys and the US Centers for Disease Controls Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System conducted a national Youth Risk Behavior Survey to examine behaviors of 9-12th grade students that place them at risk for HIV infection sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unwanted pregnancy. 33-79% of students in the state and local surveys had had sexual intercourse (Puerto Rico had the lowest percentage while Wisconsin had the highest). 54-78% were currently sexually active (i.e. intercourse within the last 3 months). 58-87% of current sexually active students used contraception at last intercourse (Jersey City NJ = 58% and New Hampshire = 87%). In all sites males and females used contraceptives at about the same rate. Just 28-53% of currently sexually active students used condoms at last intercourse (Puerto Rico = 28% and Nebraska Oregon and Wisconsin = 53%). 8-46% had had sexual intercourse with at least 4 partners in their lifetime (Puerto Rico had the lowest percentage while the District of Columbia had the highest). In all but 1 site boys were more likely to have had sexual intercourse and to have had at least 4 partners during their lifetime than girls. In 26 of 28 sites girls were more likely to be currently sexually active. Ever use of intravenous (IV) drugs varied from 1 to 4% (Puerto Rico New Jersey and Wisconsin = 1%; New Hampshire = 4%). Only 2 sites met the US Public Health Services objective of reducing the percentage of 9-12th grade students having sexual intercourse to 40%. For all sexually active unmarried teens no site met the objective of contraceptive usage of 90% and ..... condom use of 60% for females and 75% for males. 78% and 47% of school districts require HIV education for grades 6-8 and grades 9-12 respectively. CDC is available to provide assistance in HIV education to all state and local education agencies.