GOOD NEWS, BAD NEWS

The 2001 CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey results are good news indeed ("CDC
survey finds more teens saying no to sex," Sept. 27).

From 1991 to 2001, the percentage of U.S. high school students who have
had sex decreased from 54 percent to 46 percent. Of these, fewer are
currently sexually active and fewer have had multiple partners.

But there is some not-so-good news as well. Among those who are sexually
active, the use of condoms is no longer increasing. Use of alcohol or drugs
before sex is increasing. And 46 percent having had sex is still too many.

As parents and as a community, we need to help young people choose
abstinence. We also need to help those who are sexually active use condoms
and contraceptives every time. Research shows that it is not a mixed
message to encourage young people to wait and to be prepared for when they
do become sexually active.

Janet P. Realini, M.D.