This pamphlet presents teenagers with a strong case for abstinence as the only assured way of avoiding sexually transmitted diseases.
It points out that they are at particular risk, with teens accounting for fully one-fourth of all new STD cases each year, that many infections are asymptomatic, that, in many cases, only a medical test can determine whether a potential partner is infected, that some infections are incurable, and that condoms, though strongly recommended, are not a perfect preventive measure
Readers learn that by waiting until they are committed to a lifetime mutually monogamous relationship before having sex, they are at little risk of venereal diseases.
A survey of the most common STDs is included. For additional information, readers are referred to In the Know Zone, Fox Pro Media's free STD information Web site, and the National STD Hotline.
