Adolescents who have sex at a younger age are more likely to get a sexually transmitted infection and to get pregnant. They are also more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors in the future (Healthy People 2030). More than half of all sexually transmitted disease (STD) cases in the United States are among young people ages 15 to 24 years (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Public health interventions coupled with comprehensive sex education programs may prevent adolescents from having sex while also equipping them with the knowledge to make safer choices (Healthy People 2030).   

Considerations for Equitable Approaches:  The percentage of high school students who are sexually active has decreased over the past decade among all racial and ethnic groups. There were no significant differences by racial or ethnic groups in percentage of students who were sexually active, except for Asian students who were less likely than other groups to engage in sexual behaviors. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). 

Inclusive Language Recommendations: The terms “sexually transmitted disease” (STD) and “sexually transmitted infection” (STI) are often used interchangeably. STI is most accurate when referring to pathogens that can be acquired and transmitted through sexual activity – even those that may not cause disease in the individual. In some cases, the term “STD” may be more familiar to more people (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). 

The Healthy People 2030 national target is 80.8 percent of adolescents who have never had sexual intercourse.