Latest addition : September 6, 2009
In November , 2009 an independent CDC Task Force concluded that there is sufficient evidence that comprehensive risk reduction interventions are effective in reducing risky sexual behavior and limiting the spread of sexually transmitted infections, while there is insufficient evidence of the effectiveness of abstinence-only programs. (Washington Post 11/7/09; Medical News Today 11/10/09)
American squeamishness about talking about sex has helped keep common sexually transmitted infections far too common, especially among vulnerable teens, U.S. researchers reported Monday. Latest statistics on chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis show the three highly treatable infections continue to spread in the United States. "We have among the highest rates of STDs of any developed country in the world," said John Douglas, director of the division of sexually transmitted diseases at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Reuter 11/19/09)
Newsweek looks at abstinence education and its future (10/27/09). “It’s been a mainstay of sex ed for more than a decade. Now, as the Obama administration cuts off federal funding, the movement scrambles for money, determined to continue its mission.”
In a letter presented today to the Chairs of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees, more than 160 local, state, and national organizations requested the elimination of federal funding for all abstinence-only-until-marriage programs, and funding of the most comprehensive prevention initiative possible. The signers included Georgia Parents for Responsible Health Education.
In Savannah, Georgia, dozens of young people got out to raise awareness about the Responsible Education About Life Act (REAL Act), a federal bill promoting sex education in schools on Friday.