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Teen Sex: Reality Check
Stephen J. Genuis M.D. and Shelagh K. Genuis, BScOT

Reviewed by Therese Gervais, reprinted from The Rose

When sexual activity among adolescents is considered, its negative aspects are generally focused on two areas of concern: the possibility of an unwanted pregnancy and the possibility of acquiring HIV/AIDS. Much less attention is given to the possibility of acquiring a sexually transmitted disease other than the above-mentioned. If addressed, other STDs are most often presented as a potentially serious but much lesser problem.

This book challenges that perception. The writers contend that all STDs are indeed serious infections and can be devastating for those afflicted, for their future spouses, their families and indeed very costly for society as a whole. Given the impressive credentials of Dr. Stephen Genuis, a practicing obstetrician and gynaecologist with many years of clinical practice, and the thoroughness of the research done in producing this book, the information presented cannot be ignored.

Teen Sex: Reality Check lists the facts currently known about Sexually Transmitted Diseases and describes the resulting, often chronic suffering that those infected endure. Case studies and stories provide a human dimension to the problem by emphasizing the impact on individual sufferers. The factors which contribute to the increasing prevalence of STDs among our adolescent population are also discussed, and finally, means by which the incidence of STD transmission among the adolescent population might be reduced are proposed.

Part One of the book outlines the extent of the problem of STDs and discusses the specific consequences for sexually active teenagers who are often unaware of the serious risks involved in their behaviour. Part Two addresses the problem. It examines the deficiencies of current public health strategies to decrease STD transmission as well as the reasons why young teens become sexually involved. The impact of popular culture on adolescent behaviour is examined also. The important role of parents and of health care providers is providing much needed information and in influencing the behaviour of adolescents is stressed.

This book should be required reading for all parents of young adolescents, health educators and public health policy makers. It would also be an excellent source of information for young teens. Dr. Genuis and his wife Shelagh are to be commended for providing this comprehensive and easy to read resource for all those interested in the health of our adolescent population.

This book can be borrowed or purchased from the Edmonton Prolife office, or borrowed from the Edmonton Public Library or the University of Alberta Libraries.

This book can be purchased through Winfield House Publishing, Edmonton.

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