Italian youth lack sexual health knowledge, survey finds

A national survey conducted by Ipsos Doxa for Medici del Mondo reveals significant gaps in sexual health knowledge among Italian youth aged 16 to 25. The study shows that 72% of respondents are unaware that HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse, with half mistakenly believing transmission can occur via mosquito bites or public restrooms.

Regarding sexual behavior, more than 60% of respondents are sexually active, and a similar percentage had their first sexual encounter before age 18. While one in three uses condoms consistently, 21% report never or rarely using them. Cost was cited as a barrier for 10% of the youth surveyed.

Due to a lack of formal instruction, many young people turn to social media, artificial intelligence, and pornography for information, with 31% relying on pornography. The survey highlights a strong demand for institutional support, as 71% of respondents believe sexual and affective education should be provided in schools, and 56% want it to be mandatory.