The World Health Organisation (WHO) has expressed concern over a significant decline in condom use among sexually active adolescents since 2014, leading to a surge in unprotected sex and associated risks.
According to a new report from the WHO's Regional Office for Europe, data reveals a worrying trend of decreased condom use, putting young people at greater risk of sexually transmitted infections, unsafe abortions, and unplanned pregnancies.
The report, based on the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children study, surveyed over 242,000 15-year-olds across 42 countries in Europe, central Asia, and Canada between 2014 and 2022. The findings indicate a pervasive decrease in condom use, with a significant drop in the proportion of sexually active adolescents using a condom at last intercourse.
Dr Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, attributed the decline in condom use to a lack of comprehensive sex education, which has come under attack in recent years. He emphasized the importance of equipping young people with the right knowledge to make informed decisions about their sexual health, ultimately safeguarding their overall well-being.