ETHNIC-DIFFERENCES IN STD RATES AMONG FEMALE ADOLESCENTS

Ethnic differences in rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) we re examined in a sample of 205 female adolescents receiving care at tw o family planning clinics in Houston, Texas. New infection and reinfec tion rates following treatment were also investigated. Black teens had a higher rate of past STDs than did Hispanic or White teens. However, there were no differences in rates at the time of the clinic visit. O f the 143 (69.8%) teens who returned for followup care, 21 (14.7%) had new infections; Black teens had the highest rate. The findings indica ted that programs for teens need to address cultural, ethnic, and gend er issues.