Abstract PO-054: Evidence-based sexual health education program among at-risk youth baseline findings

Abstract

Abstract Background: Of the estimated 26 million new diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) each year, youth aged 15 – 24yo constitute half of these. The most common STI, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), is the primary cause of cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. Racial and ethnic minority youth are at increased risk for STIs such as HPV. Lack of access to comprehensive sexual health education leave youth vulnerable to STI's which increase their risk of certain cancers. This study describes characteristics of participants regarding engagement in sexual behaviors and knowledge and attitudes towards STI protection. Methods: Proud-Teens of Philly (PTOP), an evidence-based program, was implemented in youth (n=212) aged 12-19 years in Philadelphia County recruited from a network of partner sites. Program implementation occurred over nine one-hour virtual sessions. The program aimed to reduce risky sexual behaviors by promoting healthy choices and increasing knowledge of sexual health. Participants completed a pre-survey administered online prior to starting the program. Results: Participants' average age was 14.2 years old, 49.2% of participants identified as Hispanic/Latino, and (21.2%) of participants were Non-Hispanic Black, followed by Non-Hispanic white (30.7%). At baseline, 12.8% of participants have been or are currently sexually active, and about half felt strongly about delaying sexual behavior (52.8%). Findings revealed gaps in communication about barrier protection with sexual partners. While 82.0% indicate they agree condoms are effective in preventing STI transmission, there was a low perceived susceptibility of contracting an STI. Conclusion: Findings suggest implementing Proud Teens of Philly may be beneficial in reducing STIs and HPV related cancers among at-risk youth by promoting healthy sexual behaviors. Citation Format: Ra'Ann Merceir, Aisha Bhimla, Adebola Duro-Aina, Yin Tan, Sabrina Liao, Min Qi Wang, Renee Jackson, Grace X. Ma. Evidence-based sexual health education program among at-risk youth baseline findings [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: 14th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2021 Oct 6-8. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-054.