08/29/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 08/30/2024 04:50
WHO report reveals high rates of unprotected sex among teenagers across Europe, with significant implications for health and safety
: A report from the WHO Regional Office for Europe reveals condom use among sexually active adolescents has declined significantly since 2014, with rates of unprotected sex worryingly high.
This is putting young people at significant risk of sexually transmitted infections and contributing to unplanned pregnancies with often damaging consequences.
The new data were published as part of the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study, which surveyed over 242,000 15-year-olds across 42 countries and regions in the period 2014 to 2022.
Key findings:
Dr András Költő, University of Galway researcher and the lead author of the report, said: "Regarding condoms, we see the same trend among youth in Ireland as in the international sample. Over each survey cycle we see less and less adolescents report they or their partner used a condom at last intercourse; in 2010, more than three quarters of young people reported condom use, whereas in 2022, less than half of youth reported condom use."
University of Galway researchers who conducted the study in Ireland warn that unprotected sexual intercourse can have far-reaching consequences for young people, including unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The high prevalence of unprotected sex indicates significant gaps in age-appropriate comprehensive sexuality education, including sexual health education, and access to contraceptive methods.
Compared to 2014 levels, the new data show a significant decline in the number of adolescents reporting condom use during last sexual intercourse.
From the data, it is clear that the decrease in condom use is pervasive, spanning multiple countries and regions, with some experiencing more dramatic reductions than others.
The report underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to address these concerning trends and promote safer sexual practices among young people within the wider context of equipping them with the foundation they need for optimal health and well-being.
Findings from the report related to Europe and Ireland:
In Ireland, only 50% of boys and 49% of girls reported condom use in 2022.
Compared to the international average, girls in Ireland were more likely to report contraceptive use (41%); while boys were somewhat less likely to state that (21%).
In Ireland, 35% of girls and 38% of boys had no protection at last sex.
The findings underscore the importance of providing comprehensive sexual health education and resources for young people.
Éabha, a 16-year-old from Ireland, said: "As teenagers, having access to accurate information about sexual health is vital. We need education that covers everything from consent to contraception, so we can make informed decisions and protect ourselves."
Dr Költő said: "It is a great news that girls rank highly in international comparison regarding contraceptive pill use at last sexual intercourse. We were delighted to learn that the Free Contraception Scheme was recently extended to 17-year-old girls.
"This action, however, needs to be coupled with a reform of relationships and sexuality education.
"Comprehensive sexuality education is key to closing these gaps and empowering all young people to make informed decisions about sex as they transition from adolescence to adulthood. Sex education must go beyond just providing information. Young people need safe spaces to discuss issues like consent, intimate relationships, gender identity and sexual orientation. Governments, health and education authorities, and civil society organisations as well as parents and teachers should help them develop crucial life skills including transparent, non-judgmental communication and decision-making. We are looking forward to reading the report of National Council for Curriculum and Assessment on the planned reform of Relationships and Sexuality Education in Ireland."
Call to action for policymakers and educators
The WHO Regional Office for Europe calls upon policymakers, educators, and healthcare providers to prioritise adolescent sexual health by:
Ends
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