Implementation of Health Promotion Programs in Adolescents for Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a health promotion program in increasing knowledge and changing adolescent behavior related to the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This program was implemented in a group of adolescents in certain schools who participated in counseling on STDs, transmission methods, symptoms, and prevention methods, including the use of contraception. The method used was a quantitative research design with a pre-test and post-test approach, where data were collected through a questionnaire that measured adolescent knowledge and behavior related to STDs. The results showed that there was a significant increase in adolescent knowledge about STDs after participating in the education program. In addition, there were positive changes in their behavior, especially in the use of contraception as a preventive measure against STDs. This study also found that a structured education-based health promotion program can increase adolescent awareness and preventive actions in maintaining their sexual health. These results support the importance of a broader and more integrated health education program in the education system to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases among adolescents.