A special issue of the journal Prevention Science spotlights six NIDA-funded early interventions (delivered prior to the onset of adolescence) that successfully reduced later health-risking sexual behaviors related to HIV/AIDS. Traditionally, prevention interventions to avert risky sexual behavior and related problem behaviors like drug use have targeted teens and young adults, because these are the ages most directly affected. But research shows interventions during childhood can be effective at heading off those risks, with demonstrable effects that extend into adolescence, and adulthood.
A review of the supplemental issue was recently made available to the public at: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4097081/.
For more information, contact the NIDA press office at media@nida.nih.gov or 301-443-6245.