The Effectiveness of Comprehensive Sexual Education for Lowering Rates of HIV/AIDS

Abstract

By Samantha Tanen, Social Work

Advisor: Gary Dick

Presentation ID: 189

Abstract: In the United States, rates of HIV/AIDS diagnosis have increased and have affected a plethora of communities and individuals. In 2018, 37,968 people have received an HIV diagnosis (CDC.gov, 2020). While HIV diagnosis have decreased by 7 % from 2014 to 2018, annual diagnosis have increased among certain groups (CDC.gov). Of the 37,968 new diagnosis reported in 2018, 69% were among gay and bisexual men, specifically Black and African American men who have sex with men, or MSM (CDC.gov). In addition to this, 2018 had been the highest among people of the ages 25-34, as 13,491 newly reported cases had been made (CDC.gov). In the United States, there is a lack of inclusive, medically based sexual education that is needed to prevent rates of HIV/AIDS for all people. Sexual Education programming varies widely across the United States (Planned Parenthood). Fewer young people report receiving any form of sex education at all (Planned Parenthood). Comprehensive sexual education includes an intersectional mindset that allows individuals to make safe and healthy decisions for their sexual lives and beyond. This teaching provides medically accurate guidelines that cover human sexuality, reproduction, anatomy, family life, sexual orientation and gender identity, contraception, sexual abuse, HIV/AIDS prevention, and many more necessary tools to practice safe sexual activities (National Guidelines Task Force). These tools may lower rates of HIV/AIDS among all individuals.