Comprehensive Sexuality Education, Healthcare Professional Associations, and the Future of the World's Youth

Nicola J. Gray, C. P. Bansal, Esther Corona, Yasmin Jayasinghe, Melissa Kang, Marisa Labovsky, Aparna Sridhar, Linda Sussman, Jonathan D. Klein

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Sexual and reproductive health rights are agreed in international laws [1]. In recent years, however, diminishing reproductive health rights have been seen across the globe, including limitations in the provision of comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) for adolescents and young adults (AYAs). CSE is defined by the World Health Organization as “a curriculum-based process of teaching and learning about the cognitive, emotional, physical, and social aspects of sexuality [2].” CSE aims to empower AYAs to realize their health and dignity, consider the impact of their health choices, and develop respectful relationships in order for them to lead their best lives. Recognizing these increasing threats to what AYAs need and want, five healthcare professional associations engaged in discussion with UN agencies and each other about advocating effectively for evidence-based CSE; this commentary summarizes five policy statements motivated by these discussions and registers publicly our collective organizations’ support for CSE in schools.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)757-760
Number of pages4
JournalJournal of Adolescent Health
Volume76
Issue number5
Early online date24 Apr 2025
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 24 Apr 2025

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