There is a persistent risk for young people, ages 13-24, to become infected with HIV. Vigilance is needed in prevention education, especially among youth of minority races and ethnicities who are at greater risk. As new generations emerge, prevention strategies need to continue to emerge.

At least half of all new HIV infections in the United States are estimated to be among people under the age of 25. Young African Americans represented 65% of AIDS cases reported among 13-19 year olds in 2002. Latino teens represented 20% of new infections. During 2002, teen girls represented about half of HIV cases reported among the same age group.

Most young people are infected through sex. Many do not realize they are at risk for infection. Young women often do not recognize their partner’s risk factors, especially when they are having sex with an older man who is more likely to be infected with HIV. Drug use also increases their risk. Both casual and chronic substance users are more likely to have unprotected sex when they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Sharing needles and exchanging sex for drugs or money also put them at risk.

Young people need:

  • accurate, age-appropriate information;
  • gender–specific information and services geared for the needs of young women;
  • to understand that abstinence is the only 100% effective way to avoid infection;
  • ways to talk about cultural attitudes about gender roles;
  • ways to talk with their parents and other trusted adults;
  • to receive warmth, love, and caring from their parents and other trusted adults;
  • ways to reduce and eliminate risk behaviors;
  • ways to talk with a potential partner about risk;
  • information about where to get tested for HIV; and
  • information on how to use a condom correctly.

To Learn More
Visit the following web sites for more information about HIV in young people:

To view an HIV/AIDS curriculum for youth, visit Lutheran AIDS Network: www.lutheranAIDS.net.