SINGAPORE: The number of sexually-transmitted infections
(STIs) among youths in Singapore has nearly doubled in the past ten
years.
Latest figures by the Ministry of Health (MOH) showed that 418 of
every 100,000 people aged 15 to 24 had contracted a
sexually-transmitted infection, compared to 213 in 1998.
In the last five years, the number of females infected have
outnumbered males. 479 females contracted STIs last year compared
to 362 males.
A Students' Health Survey, which was last conducted in 2006, also
found that students as young as Secondary 3 and 4 have had sexual
intercourse. And of these, 24 per cent were sexually active, having
sex at least five times within 12 months.
Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan released these figures in Parliament
on Monday in response to a written question from MP for Hong Kah
GRC, Zaqy Mohamad.
Mr Khaw added that the National University of Singapore is
conducting a survey to study the correlation factors, including the
socio-economic and educational backgrounds.
He said there are programmes to address the rising trend, including
working with youth organisations.
The Health Promotion Board also runs sexually-transmitted
infections and AIDS awareness programmes. These are targeted at
Secondary 3 students, covering issues such as abstinence and condom
use. - CNA/vm
