HIV/AIDS and STDs

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While no single approach will work for all students, research shows that providing comprehensive sexuality education, ensuring access to reproductive health care, and supporting positive youth development are approaches that schools can use to reduce teen sexual risk taking. Sexual intercourse, particularly without the use of a condom, puts teens at risk for unintended pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Quick Facts

• Adolescents, ages 15-24, have the highest STD rates of any age group.
• Teen pregnancy and births are more common in the U.S. than in any other industrialized country.
• Untreated STDs can lead to long-term health consequences, missed school time, and other complications.
• Teens who are taking sexual risks are also more likely to take other health risks.
• About 40% of teen girls who have a baby by the age of 18 graduate from high school.
• The 2011 RI YRBS Data Brief shows that high school students with higher grades are significantly less likely to have engaged in sexual risk behaviors.

What’s your HIV IQ?

This PowerPoint Presentation will test your HIV/AIDS general knowledge.