Philadelphia has the highest reported rates of sexual intercourse and early sexual debut. Philadelphia youth are starting sex early, currently engaging in sex, have more than four lifetime partners, and use condoms with less frequency than the national average. Philadelphia girls report the highest rates of dating violence and forced sex of any city (High School Year Youth Risk Behavior Survey).

Young adolescents are engaging in risky sexual behaviors. Comprehensive, early sex education can reduce infection rates, prevent unwanted pregnancy and teach responsible, respectful behaviors.