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We compared sexual/reproductive health services and sexuality education topics provided in Texas alternative high schools (AHSs) with the prevalence of sexual risk behaviors among students in AHS. Using cross-sectional data from convenience samples of 14 principals, 14 lead health educators, and 515 students, we calculated descriptive statistics for 20 services and 15 sexuality education topics provided by AHSs and seven sexual risk behaviors among students in AHS. AHSs provided few sexual/reproductive health services and limited educational content, despite high levels of sexual risk taking among students. For example, no AHSs taught students about proper condom use, yet 84% of students have had sex. Findings provide preliminary evidence of unmet needs for school-based sexual/reproductive health services and comprehensive sexuality education in AHS settings. Future investigation with larger, representative samples is needed to assess the provision of sexual/reproductive health services and sexuality education in AHSs and monitor sexual risk behaviors in the AHS population.

We compared sexual/reproductive health services and sexuality education topics provided in Texas alternative high schools (AHSs) with the prevalence of sexual risk behaviors among students in AHS. Using cross-sectional data from convenience samples of 14 principals, 14 lead health educators, and 515 students, we calculated descriptive statistics for 20 services and 15 sexuality education topics provided by AHSs and seven sexual risk behaviors among students in AHS. AHSs provided few sexual/reproductive health services and limited educational content, despite high levels of sexual risk taking among students. For example, no AHSs taught students about proper condom use, yet 84% of students have had sex. Findings provide preliminary evidence of unmet needs for school-based sexual/reproductive health services and comprehensive sexuality education in AHS settings. Future investigation with larger, representative samples is needed to assess the provision of sexual/reproductive health services and sexuality education in AHSs and monitor sexual risk behaviors in the AHS population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Human trafficking is an increasingly well-recognized human rights violation that is estimated to involve more than 2 million victims worldwide each year. The health consequences of this issue bring victims into contact with health systems and healthcare providers, thus providing the potential for identification and intervention. A robust healthcare response, however, requires a healthcare workforce that is aware of the health impact of this issue; educated about how to identify and treat affected individuals in a compassionate, culturally aware, and trauma-informed manner; and trained about how to collaborate efficiently with law enforcement, case management, and advocacy partners. This article describes existing educational offerings about human trafficking designed for a healthcare audience and makes recommendations for further curriculum development. Evidence acquisition: A keyword search and structured analysis of peer-reviewed and gray literature, conducted in 2011 and 2012, yielded 27 items that provide basic guidance to health professionals on human trafficking. Evidence synthesis: The 27 resources differed substantially in format, length, scope, and intended audience. Topic areas covered by these resources included trafficking definitions and scope, health consequences, victim identification, appropriate treatment, referral to services, legal issues, and security. None of the educational resources has been rigorously evaluated. Conclusions: There is a clear need to develop, implement, and evaluate high-quality education and training programs that focus on human trafficking for healthcare providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]