There is a global call for the provision of universal access to comprehensive sexuality education and information as part of the goals for sexual health for the millennium. Within the colonial context and as part of a Latin American and Caribbean culture, Puerto Ricans has faced challenges in the recognition of sexual diversity, sexual rights and evidence-based interventions to promote sexual health. Several actions have been taken in order to analyze and improve the sexual health status in Puerto Rico through the implementation of sexuality education initiatives.
This presentation encompasses a critical analysis of current experiences of sexuality education in Puerto Rico. Several research approaches, including curricula and policy analyses, have helped to describe the experiences of sexuality education in Puerto Rico and the challenges and opportunities to achieve a comprehensive approach to sexual health promotion.
Findings evidence disparities among the expectation for comprehensive sexuality education and the practices currently implemented in Puerto Rico. These inequalities include limited recognition of gender-based imbalances, sexual diversities, and articulated approaches to HIV and STI prevention.
Sexuality education is challenged by gaps in the continuum of school-based curricular priorities, funding availability, lack of evaluation, and ideologies related to sexual practices and behaviors. It is expected that political, social and educational changes facilitate the inclusion of comprehensive and inclusive approaches for sexuality education in Puerto Rico. Otherwise, current and emergent threats will challenge wellness and well-being among Puerto Ricans and, consequently, the achievement of sustainable development.
Conflict of Interest: None disclosed
Financial Support/Funding: None disclosed
This presentation was recorded at the XIXth WAS World Congress For Sexual Health - Sexual Health and Rights: A Global Challenge, Göteborg (Sweden), June 2009.
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