NCJ Number
115804
Date Published
1988
Length
30 pages
Annotation
This document discusses AIDS and adolescents, focusing of those most exposed to AIDS and outlining methods for preventing adolescents from contracting the disease.
Abstract
Adolescents who use drugs and who have multiple sexual partners are at high risk for HIV infections leading to AIDS. Teen-aged girls who involve themselves in high risk behavior may contract AIDS, become pregnant, and pass on the infection to their children. To reduce the risk of adolescent AIDS infection and change behavior, it is necessary to educate teenagers in how AIDS is contracted and transmitted and to develop comprehensive education programs in the schools. When designing education programs and public health services for teenagers infected with AIDS, communities must be aware of adolescent development as well as the legal and ethical concerns, including access to services, parental consent, and confidentiality. A glossary of AIDS-related medical terms, 10 steps to take in fighting AIDS, and a list of resource organizations to contact for additional information is included. 23 references.