WHO Reports Decline in Teen Condom Use

A World Health Organization (WHO) report reveals a significant decline in condom use among European adolescents from 2014 to 2022, heightening the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies. The proportion of sexually active 15-year-old boys who used a condom dropped from 70% to 61%, and for girls from 63% to 57%. The decline is attributed to inadequate sexual education and resistance to such programs. Teens from low-income families are more likely to forgo using condoms or contraceptive pills. The WHO emphasizes the need for comprehensive sexual education and better access to contraceptive methods to mitigate these risks. France has responded by making condoms free for individuals up to age 25 to combat rising STI rates.