Problem use of psychoactive substances and high-risk sexual behaviours among adolescents admitted to a youth centre
Objectives: To describe the sexual risk behaviors among youth admitted to Quebec youth protections centers (YPCs) according to their profile of substance use. Methods: Between July 2008 and May 2009, a second generation surveillance study was carried out among adolescents admitted to residential youth protection centers. During a face-to-face interview, youth completed a questionnaire on their sexual behaviors and their use of psychotropic substances (during the 12 months preceding their admission to YPCs). A urine sample was collected to estimate the prevalence of chlamydial and gonococcal infections. Analysis of sexual risk behaviors were carried out according to their level of problematic substance use (as documented using the DEP-ADO screening scale). Results: Among the participants aged 14-17 years (n=499, girls=205 and boys=294) a great number (60 %) reported “problematic” substance use (PSU). The youth presenting with PSU had more sexual risk behaviors than other participants (for example, sexual initiation before age 13, multiple lifetime partners, « group sex »). Conclusion: At risk sexual behaviors are frequent among adolescents admitted to YPCs, and even more prevalent among those with problematic use of drugs and alcohol. The inter-relationships between substance use and other risk behaviors are complex and merit special consideration during the intake admission evaluation of a youth entering care. The time that youth spend in YPCs or in centers that specialize in adolescent rehabilitation is an opportune moment to screen these adolescents not only for problematic substance use but also for risky sexual behaviors and associated health problems. The offer of this screening and of related preventive interventions could greatly improve the health and well-being of these vulnerable youths.