Communication and education: Overcoming barriers to quality adolescent sexual health University of Cincinnati

In the United States, rates of sexually transmitted infections (STI), such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and human papilloma virus (HPV), in the adolescent population are concerning. Increased primary and secondary prevention, in addition to improving screening techniques, are important in this age group and may decrease the incidence of STIs in this population. As a result of cultural and economic barriers, and social stigmas, many adolescents do not receive the preventative care and education they need. Although improvement has been noted in certain indicators, compared with other age groups, adolescent health has failed to respond to the range of interventions developed for schools, communities, and the health system. Therefore, the objective of this literature review is to examine two questions. First, what are the barriers to screening and prevention of STIs in adolescents in the United States? Second, what techniques are currently employed to assist providers in overcoming the barriers of screening and prevention to provide the best care? To examine these questions, peer-reviewed journal articles relevant to the prevalence of STIs, screening of STIs, and prevention of STIs in the adolescent population are reviewed. This review increases the understanding of the barriers associated with STI prevention and screening in the adolescent population.