2008-03-17 17:10:08 -

- Spring Break is a rite of passage for U.S. college students. As millions of young adults head for popular hotspots this month, it's crucial to remember that the motto "what happens on Spring Break stays on Spring Break" doesn't always ring true. Risky behavior can lead to serious health issues, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or an unintended

pregnancy.

"An American Medical Association survey of college students found that 83 percent agree that Spring Break trips involve more or heavier drinking than typical college life(1a)," says Jennifer Wider, M.D., author of The Doctor's Complete College Girls' Health Guide: From Sex to Drugs to the Freshman 15. "Almost three-quarters of the surveyed students acknowledged that increased sexual activity takes place on these trips(1b) -- 70 percent know friends who were sexually active with more than one partner on Spring Break(1c). STDs and pregnancy are two very real risks of spontaneous sex that have lasting consequences after the trip ends."

Dr. Wider notes that the only sure way to prevent an STD or an unintended pregnancy is to abstain from sex; however, if you do have sex on Spring Break, always use a condom. She also suggests the following tips for a safe and healthy vacation.

To read the entire release and view the video, click here: mnr.onthescene.com/springbreak/tips.html

B-Roll Hard Copies Available Upon Request.

(1a-c) American Medical Association in conjunction with Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Online Survey of 644 women age 17-35. "A Matter of Degree: Spring Break Survey Key Findings," Survey conducted February 27-March 1, 2006.

Communications Strategies, Inc.
Heather Ioset, 973-635-6669