Trends in Sexual Risk Behaviors Among High School Students--United States, 1991-1997

Abstract:
This article summarizes results from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey in 1991, 1993, 1995, and 1997. The data indicate that, from 1991 to 1997, the percentage of U.S. high school students who had ever had sexual intercourse decreased, the prevalence of multiple sex partners decreased, and the prevalence of condom use among currently sexually active students increased. The decrease in sexual experience represents a reversal of the increasing trend in sexual intercourse rates among adolescents that occured during the 1970s and 1980s. However, decreases in sexual experience and multiple sex partners were not found among all subgroups of students, and the percentage of currently sexually active students remains stable. The article concludes that many adolescents remain at risk for HIV, other STDs, and unintended pregnancy and that expanded efforts are required of families, schools, and other social institutions to achieve continued reductions in risk.

Publication: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)


Date Published: 9/18/1998

Comments:
The article is accompanied by summaries from 'The New York Times' and 'The Washington Post.'

Location Code: 8295