Prevention Task Force Recommends Behavioral Counseling To Prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) for Sexually Active Adolescents
October 16, 2008
Prevention Task Force Recommends Behavioral Counseling To Prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) for Sexually Active Adolescents

Drawing on research from the past 20 years, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has recommended endorsing behavioral counseling for sexually active adolescents. The USPSTF identified sexually active adolescents at high risk for STIs and suggests multiple session counseling delivered in groups to be one of the most successful interventions for this population. The evidence reviewed showed no negative effects (measured as increased sexual activity without use of condoms and increased activity with multiple partners) of behavioral counseling interventions. The USPSTF grades this recommendation “B”, meaning the Task Force recommends the service because there is a high certainty that the benefit is moderate or there is moderate certainty the benefit is moderate to substantial. They also recommend the service be included in primary care practice and cited a survey of primary care physicians where only 31% of physicians surveyed reported educating their adolescent patients about STI transmission. The USPSTF stated that there is insufficient evidence at this time to make any recommendations regarding non-sexually active adolescents.

To read more about the guidelines please visit
http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/uspstf/uspsstds.htm