Condom distribution in high schools nationwide has been a hot topic for years. Proponents have always argued that condom availability helps decrease the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, especially HIV. Groups opposed to condom distribution in high schools say it encourages sex and immoral behavior.

But now a three-year study comparing condom use in Chicago and New York City high schools says that condom availability does not increase the rate of sexual activity among teens.

Guests:

• Sally Guttmacher, the lead author of the new report on condom availability in public high schools. She is an associate professor at New York University’s department of health studies in the School of Education.
• Alice Radosh, one of the authors of the report which is published in this months edition of the American Journal of Public Health. She works with the Academy for Educational Development in New York City.

Related links:

• article on condom distribution in school in the publication Alive and Kicking