Report blames celebs for risky teen sex
Issue date : June 22, 2008
Teens in the UK are facing a sexual health crisis fueled by drugs, booze and risky sex, according to a new report warning of "disturbing" increases in sexually-transmitted infections.
The Independent Advisory Group on Sexual Health and HIV said Friday young people are being influenced by celebrity culture to abuse alcohol and drugs and then make unsafe sexual choices.
The report blasted "publicity and coverage of sex, drugs and excessive drinking by 'celebrities' and 'pop idols' and by characters in 'soaps,' making it an acceptable lifestyle."
The advisory group found the UK has the highest rates of teen pregnancy and STDs in Europe, saying restrictions on condom advertising on television and a lack of sex education in schools are contributing to the problems.
The group recommended the government investigate alcohol advertising aimed at young people, as well as the "sexualization" of children's toys.
Over the last 12 years, the rates of chlamydia and HIV have risen 300 per cent in the UK. Cases of syphilis have gone up 2,000 per cent.
The group's findings come on the heels of a UNICEF report ranking Britain last among 21 wealthy countries for children's well being.
Source : http://www.canada.com