Improving the health of homeless youth through community-based sexual health promotion

Abstract

Background: Although sexually transmitted infections (STIs) impact individuals of all ages, adolescents and those who are homeless, are at a particularly increased risk. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated adolescents aged 15-24 years account for half of all new STIs in the US. Homeless youth are generally knowledgeable about transmission, prevention, and treatment of STIs, however, there are disparities regarding access and knowledge of free preventive and medical services. This pilot study explored the knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of homeless youth before and after the implementation of a sexual health education program. Methods:The curriculum included four separate topic presentations in small group sessions of 7-15 participants at local community-based street outreach program related to reproductive anatomy, STIs, contraception, and an interactive reproductive physical exam simulation. This study used a retrospective pre/post survey to evaluate the impact.Results: Fifteen individuals participated in at least one of the sessions. Participants who attended 3-4 of the sessions showed greater knowledge improvement than those who only attended 1-2 sessions. Basic knowledge was the same (e.g., will visit a medical care provider when needed, 100% both groups) but more advanced knowledge was greater for those who attended 3-4 sessions (Plan B usage, 43% (n=3/7) vs. 75% (n=3/4)). Conclusion:By overcoming barriers regarding health disparities through education and collaboration, this study was able to empower at-risk youth to be proactive in their own sexual health.