Teenagers and the risks of sexually transmitted diseases: a need for the provision of balanced information.
OBJECTIVE
Evaluation of teenagers' knowledge and understanding about sexually transmitted disease, conception and contraception.


METHODS
A questionnaire study.


METHODS
Schools


METHODS
1025 teenagers aged 15/16 years (mean 16.00).


METHODS
Scores attained in response to questions about sexually transmitted disease related to the sources of information given as most helpful.


RESULTS
Teenagers have an incorrect understanding of the risks of sexually transmitted diseases.


CONCLUSIONS
Teenagers may substantially underestimate their personal risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases following the promotion of information about HIV/AIDS. Apparently simple messages about HIV and AIDS given in mass media advertising programmes may have unwanted results and need to be balanced by appropriate professional interpretation to teenagers.
Mellanby
A
A
Department of Child Health, University of Exeter, UK.
Phelps
F
F
Lawrence
C
C
Tripp
J H
JH
D000293:Adolescent; D003075:Coitus / Q000523:psychology; D003267:Contraception / Q000523:psychology; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D005306:Fertilization; D006266:Health Education / Q000592:standards*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012574:Schools; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013690:Television