Holy Cross Ought to Distribute Condoms: Students Urge for Sexual Health Support
In a move aimed at addressing the high rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among young adults, Holy Cross University has announced the introduction of an "Express STI Clinic" for confidential STI and pregnancy testing. This decision comes as the institution grapples with the balance between its religious mission and the need for comprehensive health services.
According to the World Health Organization, condoms are the most effective method of preventing most STIs, making them a crucial resource in the fight against the rising STI rates among young adults, who account for approximately half of new STI cases in the United States each year.
However, the provision of condoms and oral dams raises equity issues, as some students may not be able to afford them or feel uncomfortable obtaining them. A harm reduction model, which aims to minimize the overall harm of high-risk behaviors, could be a potential solution for sexual health education and resource provision at Holy Cross.
As a Jesuit institution, Holy Cross's mission emphasizes values such as care for the whole person and promoting social justice. This mission could support providing resources that protect students' health and well-being. The Okanagan Charter, central to Holy Cross's mission, calls for the college to be a leader in health promotion on campus.
The Okanagan Charter is a framework for implementing health-promoting university policies. It emphasizes creating supportive environments that foster healthy behaviors and well-being among students and staff. Providing condoms and oral dams could be seen as aligning with the Okanagan Charter's principles by promoting safe sexual practices and reducing health risks. This approach would support students' health and well-being, aligning with the broader mission of creating healthy campus environments.
The Express STI Clinic, a potential addition to Holy Cross, aims to reduce barriers to sexual health services for students. The clinic will be available for anyone who wishes to get tested, offering a confidential and accessible option for students in need.
In addition to the Express STI Clinic, Holy Cross's Health Services already prescribes hormonal birth control pills and PrEP, which are effective in preventing the spread of STIs. These services demonstrate the university's commitment to student health and well-being.
College of the Holy Cross is known for having numerous signs promoting various programs and services, but Clearway Clinic could potentially reduce barriers to sexual health services for students. The clinic, which has been discussed as a potential addition to the campus, aims to provide comprehensive sexual health resources, including condoms and oral dams, in a safe and confidential environment.
While Holy Cross has not yet implemented Clearway Clinic, the university's adoption of the Okanagan Charter and its commitment to promoting a healthy and safe environment for young people to develop their full potential suggest a willingness to address the needs of its students in this crucial area. The balance between religious teachings and health advocacy will continue to be a complex issue, but Holy Cross's recent announcements indicate a step towards a more proactive approach to sexual health education and resource provision.
- The Express STI Clinic, proposed by Holy Cross University, intends to minimize barriers for students seeking sexual health services by offering confidential and accessible testing.
- Given that condoms are the most effective method for preventing most STIs, according to the World Health Organization, providing them could align with the Okanagan Charter's principles by promoting safe sexual practices.
- As a Jesuit institution emphasizing values such as care for the whole person and promoting social justice, Holy Cross could potentially support comprehensive health services, including sexual health education and resource provision like condoms and oral dams.
- The Okanagan Charter, integral to Holy Cross's mission, calls for colleges to lead in health promotion on campus, and providing condoms and oral dams could be seen as promoting safe sexual practices and reducing health risks.
- The Harm Reduction model, aiming to minimize the overall harm of high-risk behaviors, could be a viable solution for addressing sexual health education and resource provision at Holy Cross University, especially considering the high rates of STIs among young adults.
