The challenge of sexually transmitted diseases in adolescents

In both the medical literature and in the lay press, adolescent sexuality has received considerable attention as the problem of unintended pregnancy and, more recently, the rising rates of sexually transmitted diseases continue to exact a significant cost from increasing numbers of adolescents and from society. The potential management of these problems raises controversy, as concerns which relate not only to health, but also to lifestyle choice, frequently play a role in evolving discussions and public policies.

Escalating sexual involvement by younger and younger adolescents has resulted in an increased prevalence of sexually transmitted infections within this population. Because many of these infections may cause irreparable complications before diagnosis, and because the viral sexually transmitted diseases are incurable, the importance of primary prevention is becoming increasingly evident. A brief review of a number of programs in different western nations suggests that the focus on risk reduction through technology has not yet met the desired objectives, and the problems of unintended adolescent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases persist. Given the serious long-term consequences for the individual, as well as the cost to families and communities, management strategies which focus on the primary problematic behavior need to be further explored and the short- and long-term impact of all programs must be carefully evaluated.