A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study reveals a worrying decline in condom use among adolescents across Europe, Central Asia, and Canada. Findings from over 242,000 adolescents aged 15 across 42 countries show a significant drop in condom use since 2014. This places young people at heightened risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies. This decline in safe sex practices calls for immediate action to bolster sexual health education and services for adolescents.
ALARMING DROP IN CONDOM USE AMONG ADOLESCENTS
Data reveals a decline in condom use among sexually active adolescents. Condom use dropped from 70% to 61% among boys. It also fell from 63% to 57% among girls between 2014 and 2022. This trend spans multiple countries and regions, with some showing more significant decreases.
The report highlights the steady rate of unprotected sex among young people. Among adolescents, 30% reported using neither a condom nor contraceptive pills at their last intercourse. This lack of protection exposes them to increased risks of STIs and unplanned pregnancies.
DISPARITIES IN SEXUAL HEALTH: SOCIOECONOMIC INFLUENCES
Socioeconomic status plays a crucial role in sexual health practices among adolescents. Adolescents from low-affluence families report lower rates of condom and contraceptive pill use. They use protection less often than their peers from more affluent backgrounds. 33% of low-affluence teens do not use protection. In comparison, only 25% in higher-income groups do not use protection. These disparities underscore the need for targeted interventions to tackle the specific challenges faced by economically disadvantaged young people.
STABLE CONTRACEPTIVE PILL USE BUT ONGOING CONCERNS
While contraceptive pill use has remained stable at 26% since 2014, the decrease in condom use is alarming. Condoms are a primary method of STI prevention. The report indicates that adolescents continue to rely on limited contraceptive methods. This highlights the need for expanded access to diverse, reliable birth control options.
GEOGRAPHICAL VARIATIONS REFLECT CULTURAL DIFFERENCES
The report reveals significant geographic variation in sexual health behaviors, reflecting differing cultural norms, educational access, and available health services. These findings suggest that addressing adolescent sexual health will need tailored strategies. These strategies must consider local contexts. They should also take into account cultural attitudes towards sexual health education and services.
ADDRESSING THE CONSEQUENCES OF UNPROTECTED SEX
Unprotected sex among adolescents has far-reaching consequences, including higher rates of STIs, unintended pregnancies, and disrupted education and career trajectories. To tackle these risks, the report outlines three areas for sustainable investment:
- Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE): Schools should implement age-appropriate sexuality education that covers STIs, contraception, consent, healthy relationships, and LGBTQIA+ issues. According to Dr. András Költő, lead author of the report, young people need safe spaces to discuss topics like gender identity and relationship dynamics beyond just basic information.
- Youth-Friendly Sexual Health Services: Adolescents need access to confidential, non-judgmental sexual health services tailored to their needs. Such services should be accessible, affordable, and focused on empowering young people.
- Policies Supporting Adolescent Health Rights: Policymakers should foster environments that promote open dialogue about sexual health. This will help reduce stigma. It will also encourage safe behaviors. This includes educating families, schools, and communities about the importance of adolescent health.
ADVOCATING FOR COMPREHENSIVE SEXUALITY EDUCATION
Dr. Margreet de Looze of Utrecht University, a co-author of the report, highlighted the urgency for comprehensive sexuality education (CSE). She argued that such programs empower adolescents with the knowledge they need. These programs also provide the resources for safe and informed decision-making. “Adolescents deserve the tools to make informed decisions about their sexual health,” Dr. de Looze stated, emphasizing the need for political commitment to make CSE universally available.
THE NEED FOR IMMEDIATE POLICY AND COMMUNITY ACTION
WHO Regional Director Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge warns of the risks linked to delayed or insufficient action. He notes, “Age-appropriate comprehensive sexuality education is neglected in many countries. It is often misrepresented as promoting sexual activity.” He stresses that CSE enables responsible decision-making, which can mitigate negative outcomes like STI transmission and unintended pregnancies. WHO calls for immediate, evidence-based interventions to address these pressing sexual health concerns.