A recent study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) has unveiled a worrying trend in Europe: a significant decline in condom use among sexually active teenagers. The report, based on data from over 242,000 15-year-olds across 42 countries in the WHO European region, reveals that condom use among teenage boys has decreased from 70% in 2014 to 61% in 2022. Similarly, the figure for girls has dropped from 63% to 57%.
This decline in condom use has alarming implications for the health and well-being of young people. The report highlights that almost a third of adolescents admitted to not using any form of contraception, including condoms or contraceptive pills, during their last sexual encounter. This number has remained relatively unchanged since 2018. While the use of contraceptive pills has stayed relatively stable, the lack of condom use poses a significant risk for STIs and unplanned pregnancies.
The WHO emphasizes that the lack of comprehensive sexuality education is a key factor contributing to this alarming trend. Many countries fail to provide age-appropriate education about sexual health, and even where it is available, it faces increasing opposition based on the false notion that it encourages sexual behavior. However, the WHO strongly advocates for equipping young people with the necessary knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
The report also sheds light on the socioeconomic disparity in contraceptive use. Teenagers from low-income families are more likely to forgo using condoms or pills, with 33% reporting no contraceptive use compared to 25% from more affluent families. This highlights the need for accessible and equitable sexual health services for all young people, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
The WHO urges policymakers, educators, and healthcare providers to take immediate action to address this issue. They emphasize the importance of investing in comprehensive sexuality education, improving access to sexual health services, promoting open dialogue about sexual health, and providing proper training for educators. By taking these steps, we can empower young people with the knowledge and resources they need to make safe and responsible choices about their sexual health and well-being.
