Research to Action: Using An Adolescent Focus Group Project to Guide STD Prevention Programs

The disparity in STD rates between Alaska Native and non-Native populations is significant and concerning. To better understand the impact of different factors on sexual health in this population, we conducted focus groups to develop culturally appropriate, community driven sexual health interventions. Alaska Native adolescents (n=105) from five rural communities in Alaska, ages 15-24, participated in 21 focus groups. We assessed themes related to knowledge and beliefs about STD, HIV/AIDS, and unplanned pregnancy and perceptions of how adolescents prefer to learn about sexual health issues. Our findings—driven by the youth themselves—will be critical in implementing sexual health interventions.