<p>The Ghana Health Service has raised concerns about early sexual debut among adolescents, disclosing that one in 10 girls and one in seven boys in Ghana have had sexual intercourse before the age of 15.</p><p>The findings were highlighted as part of ongoing discussions on adolescent sexual and reproductive health, with health officials warning that early sexual activity exposes young people to a range of health, social and educational risks.</p><p>According to the GHS, several factors contribute to the trend, including peer pressure, curiosity, economic hardship, limited parental supervision and, in some cases, coercion and abuse. Health experts noted that adolescents from disadvantaged backgrounds may be particularly vulnerable to engaging in sexual activity at an early age.</p><p>Officials cautioned that early sexual debut increases the likelihood of unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, school dropout and other adverse health outcomes. They stressed the need for comprehensive interventions that equip young people with accurate information and life skills to make informed decisions.</p><p>The Service is advocating for stronger collaboration between parents, schools, religious institutions and community leaders to provide age-appropriate sexual and reproductive health education. It also called for greater efforts to protect children from exploitation and abuse while ensuring that adolescents have access to youth-friendly health services.</p><p>Public health experts say the findings underscore the importance of open conversations about sexuality and reproductive health, particularly in communities where such discussions are often considered taboo.</p><p>The GHS further urged stakeholders to support programmes that promote healthy development among adolescents and help reduce behaviours that place young people at risk.</p><p>As Ghana continues efforts to improve adolescent health outcomes, health authorities maintain that education, parental guidance and community support remain critical tools in addressing the challenges associated with early sexual activity among young people.<br><br>Photo credit: Modern Ghana</p>