Understanding the reproductive health needs of adolescents in selected slums in Ghana: A public health assessment

Over the past decade, adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) concerns have increasingly been on the development agenda of the government of Ghana. This concern has been driven by such factors as early age of sexual debut, early childbearing, and prevalence of HIV/AIDS among this subgroup of the population. The overall objective of the study was to generate evidence on the knowledge, perceptions, and practices regarding ASRH among slum communities in Ghana. The findings of the study indicate a need for intensifying efforts to inform and educate adolescents living in the slums about responsible and healthy attitudes toward sexuality, delaying the onset of sexual activity, and reducing risky sexual behaviors; incorporating sex education appropriate for each educational level; and involving all stakeholders including parents/guardians and community leaders in addressing adolescent SRH needs which will, in turn, enhance community participation and address cultural barriers and inhibitions to the optimum realization of ASRH