Teens Spearhead Better Health Info: A Digital Revolution

Teens today are in a tough spot when it comes to sex education. They're often left in the dark, with little to no reliable information. Schools and society aren't doing enough, and the internet is full of misleading or incorrect advice. In North America, there's a shortage of trustworthy, science-based digital tools to guide teens through their health decisions. The solution? Get teens involved in creating these tools. They know what works and what doesn't. By including them in the design process, we can ensure the information is accurate, engaging, and easy to understand. This method, known as co-design, gives teens a leading role. It's not just about hearing their opinions, but letting their voices drive the process. Who better to design health tools for teens than teens themselves? They face these challenges daily and can identify what's missing. They also know what kind of information will truly connect with their peers. This isn't about making things look trendy. It's about ensuring the message is clear and impactful. However, this approach isn't widely adopted yet. There's a pressing need for more digital tools that are both reliable and teen-approved. It's time to close the gap between what's available and what's truly helpful. By doing so, we can empower teens to take charge of their sexual and reproductive health. It's not just about providing information. It's about delivering the right information in the right way.