Health Department proposes first-ever youth sexual health plan

[hrmjustin]

By Tanique Williams

New York's first-ever Youth Sexual Health Plan was unveiled last week to combat the growing epidemic of sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancies among young people.

The plan, released under the direction of acting state Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker, is a "guide to ensure that accurate sexual health information and quality health services are made available to all youth," which cites a 2011 self-reported study that reveals an increase in sexual activity among adolescents.

"Reproductive and sexual health are key issues for adolescents and young adults," Zucker said. "Providing accurate and comprehensive information to protect adolescents' health and prepare them for responsible decision making is a public health priority."

According to the self-reported health risks and behaviors study, cited in the plan's statement of need, 60.9 percent of New York state high school students said they had sexual intercourse by the time they reached their senior year and more than one-in-four reported being sexually active by the time they entered high school.

http://www.legislativegazette.com/Articles-Top-Stories-c-2014-05-27-88054.113122-Health-Department-proposes-firstever-youth-sexual-health-plan.html

[hrmjustin]

1. Goals of the New York State Sexual Health Plan Include:

http://www.legislativegazette.com/Articles-Top-Stories-c-2014-05-27-88055.113122-Goals-of-the-New-York-State-Sexual-Health-Plan-Include.html

[shenmue]

2. We must be honest

If we are going to help people, we have to do this sort of thing. About time.