The majority of Americans are affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), while a significant number bear the burden of HIV, unintended pregnancy, sexual violence, viral hepatitis, sexual difficulties, and unhealthy relationships. Some groups are particularly hard hit, especially youth, young adults, men who have sex with men, and specific racial and ethnic groups. The impact on overall health and well-being can be significant.
Many people are eager to improve their health, but often face barriers, including social determinants of health, such as poverty, lack of education, poor housing, discrimination, and limited access to health care. The CDC and other public health leaders are continuing to call for a positive, comprehensive approach that recognizes the influence of social and emotional well-being on sexual health.
Since the National Coalition for Sexual Health’s (NCSH) inception in 2012, we have embraced this whole-person approach through promotion of the consumer-tested definition we created: “Being sexually healthy means being able to enjoy a healthier body, a satisfying sexual life, positive relationships, and peace of mind.” Making this a reality requires more than action at the individual level; it also means reducing disparities, promoting health equity, and creating a supportive environment that fosters access to high quality sexual health services and information.
To promote widespread adoption of a comprehensive sexual health and wellness framework, we will:
• Continue to galvanize and engage a diverse coalition of leading organizations and experts who understand and reach priority audiences. We will tap our members’ expertise and their existing channels nationwide to reach millions of people.
• Conduct extensive media outreach using proactive and reactive strategies to secure coverage and deliver priority messages to the public, particularly priority groups.
• Develop resources for the public, such as websites, that include practical advice, current information, conversation starters, and tools for health care visits.
• Encourage providers to integrate sexual health into routine practice by collaborating with health care organizations particularly those serving priority groups, and provide practical tools and education.
• Educate national and state-level decision makers about effective sexual health policies, including those addressing SDOH and disparities.
• Mobilize non-member organizations to take action by increasing awareness of NCSH and providing easy access to NCSH tools, resources, and Coalition updates.
• Promote health equity so that all people have the opportunity to achieve good sexual health.
To help ensure this project produces the desired impact, we will engage in rigorous monitoring, evaluation, and continuous quality improvement. By the end of year 5, we aim to: increase the Coalition’s visibility and use of resources among organizations, professional groups, and federal agencies; secure strategic media coverage supporting a comprehensive health and wellness framework, particularly to reach priority groups; increase awareness and integration of NCSH’s comprehensive and inclusive resources by providers who serve priority groups; and provide education and resources to help decision makers advance sexual health policies that accelerate STI/HIV prevention through a whole-person approach.
