Adolescents and youth of Kazakhstan on health and risks: the results of a new study
The reproductive health of adolescents and young people is a strategic indicator of social development and the sustainability of society. Kazakhstan, like many countries with economies in transition, faces challenges related to early sexual initiation, low knowledge of contraceptive methods, risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and limited access to youth health services. Despite significant efforts by the State and international organizations in the field of education and prevention, gaps remain in the knowledge and practice of adolescents and young people, especially between urban and rural areas, as well as among different language groups.
The reproductive health of adolescents and young people is not only a medical aspect, but also a key indicator of social development related to demographic processes, gender equality and the sustainability of society as a whole. Kazakhstan is at a point where traditional family values, the influence of the digital environment and socio-economic inequality are simultaneously shaping new patterns of behavior among young people. The early onset of sexual activity, the low level of trust in medical services, and the limited role of parents and educators in education all pose risks to the health and well-being of younger generations. Therefore, studying the real state of knowledge, practices and barriers in the field of reproductive health becomes not just a research task, but an important prerequisite for developing public policies focused on long-term social effects and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 3 "Good health and well-being" and SDG 5 "Gender equality".
Methods
The study is based on a representative sample of 2,778 respondents aged 15-24 years. The sample includes college and university students, working and unemployed youth. The geography covers five macroregions and three cities of national importance, including Astana and Almaty.
The methodology included an anonymous standardized survey in Kazakh and Russian. The IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software was used for statistical processing. The data were weighted by gender and type of settlement, which ensured comparability of the results. This design allowed us to identify not only general trends, but also socio-territorial differences.
Results
1. Sexual behavior
20.2% of teenagers aged 15-19 and 56.8% of youth aged 20-24 have sexual relations. The average age of sexual debut is 16.8 years for adolescents and 18 years for the older group. Early onset (<15 years) 15.6% of teenagers, mostly young men, report this. This indicates a continuing risk of early sexualization and a lack of preventive education.
2. Using contraception
Although knowledge about condoms is widespread, the practice of using them remains low: 27.8% of adolescents and 38.4% of young people did not use a condom at their last contact. Only 28% of teenagers and 46.3% of the older group correctly understand the protective properties of condoms. The main reason for refusal is unwillingness (59.6%), which reflects cultural and gender stereotypes.
3.STIs and reversibility
Symptoms characteristic of STIs are noted by 22% of respondents, while women report them more often (33.2%). However, only 47.1% sought medical help with symptoms, and less than 20% went to youth health centers. Barriers include shyness, fear of procedures, and concerns about privacy.
4. Pregnancies and abortions
Among girls aged 15-19, 1.9% have pregnancy experience, and 17.7% among women aged 20-24. The share of abortions is 20% and 18.5%, respectively. The prevalence of home abortions among women aged 20-24 (21.6%) is particularly alarming, indicating problems with access and trust in medical services.
5. HIV knowledge and stigma
Only 11.7% of respondents have comprehensive knowledge about HIV. Over the past 12 months, 4.2% of teenagers and 15.5% of young people have been tested. At the same time, stigmatization remains high: more than a third are not ready to study or work with people living with HIV.
6.Information sources
The main channel of knowledge is the Internet (62%) and social networks (54.1%), while the role of parents (37.1%), teachers (24.1%) and medical professionals (49.8%) remains limited. This highlights the need for institutionalized and trusted sources of information.
7. Gaps in territory and language
In rural areas, there is a lower level of HIV testing and a higher unmet need for contraception. Russian-speaking youth have a higher level of knowledge than Kazakh-speaking youth, and the level of stigmatization is lower.
Discussion
The results indicate a complex of problems in the field of reproductive health of young people in Kazakhstan. First, knowledge does not translate into behavior: despite awareness of condoms, their use remains low. Secondly, serious barriers to seeking medical help remain, including embarrassment and fear of judgment. Thirdly, social gaps are evident: rural youth and Kazakh-speaking groups have less access to information and services.
Comparison with international data shows that Kazakhstan is in a position of a "double gap": between knowledge and practice, as well as between different social groups. This requires systemic measures, from strengthening educational programs in schools and colleges to scaling up youth-friendly services and introducing anonymous testing.
Conclusion
The study provided a unique, representative picture of the behavior, knowledge, and barriers of adolescents and youth in Kazakhstan. Based on the results, three policy priorities can be identified:
1. Raising the level of knowledge through schools, universities and parenting programs with an emphasis on debunking myths.
2. Expanding the availability of services – the development of youth health centers, ensuring confidentiality and free tests.
3. Targeted gap reduction – special attention to rural regions, Kazakh-speaking groups and young people as a group of low awareness.
Thus, the report becomes a ready-made roadmap for the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan. The implementation of his recommendations will reduce the risks of STIs and HIV, reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies and strengthen the reproductive potential of the new generation.
The data obtained demonstrate that Kazakhstan is facing a "double gap" between knowledge and practice, as well as between different social and territorial groups of young people. Overcoming this challenge requires comprehensive solutions: the introduction of modern educational modules about health in schools and universities, the expansion of the network of youth centers, ensuring anonymity and accessibility of testing, as well as combating stigma and cultural barriers. It is important that the report identifies specific directions for national authorities, educational institutions, and international partners. Its value lies not only in statistics, but also in providing a roadmap for improving youth health as a resource for the demographic future of the country. If the recommendations are taken into account, this will allow Kazakhstan not only to reduce the risks of unwanted pregnancies, STIs and HIV, but also to lay the foundation for sustainable development, where the health and rights of youth will become a priority of national social policy.
| Имя * | |
| Комментарий * | |