Day of the Girl: Improving Girls' Health and Safety

October 11 is International Day of the Girl Child, also known as Day of the Girl, and helps to raise awareness of issues that impact young girls worldwide. Learn about several issues in the United States and what we can do to promote the health and safety of girls.

Binge Drinking

Alcohol is the most commonly used and abused drug among youth in the United States. About 1 in 5 high school girls binge drink. Binge drinking, defined for women as consuming 4 or more drinks on an occasion, increases the chances of learning and behavior problems, injuries, sexually transmitted diseases, unintended pregnancy, and many other health problems. Learn more about the consequences of underage drinking and preventing binge drinking.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes most cases of cervical cancer and some other kinds of cancer. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) . HPV is spread by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. The HPV vaccine protects against the HPV types that most often cause anal, cervical, vaginal, vulvar, and mouth/throat cancers in women. Girls and boys should get the HPV vaccine at age 11 or 12 so they are protected before ever being exposed to the virus. Learn how to reduce risk for HPV infection and the cancers caused by HPV.

Learn how to reduce risk for HPV infection and the cancers caused by HPV.

Indoor Tanning

Indoor tanning increases skin cancer risk. The risk of cancer increases with each indoor tanning session and is highest among those who start tanning at a younger age. Nearly one out of every three white high school girls tans indoors each year. Indoor tanning causes melanoma (the deadliest type of skin cancer) and premature skin aging, including wrinkles and age spots. Discourage indoor tanning and choose sun safety strategies that work: wear a hat, sunglasses, and other protective clothing, seek shade, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Young people (ages 15-24) account for half of all new STIs [1.57 MB] , although they represent just 25% of the sexually experienced population. Although the annual number of new infections is roughly equal among young women and young men, the consequences of untreated STIs are often worse for young women. Get the facts and learn ways to reduce the chances of getting an STI (including HIV) and where to get tested.

Sexual Violence

Sexual violence against girls is a significant problem around the world. 42% of female [282 KB] rape victims were first raped before the age of 18. Sexual violence can lead to harmful and lasting physical, psychological, and social consequences. Prevention approaches should aim to reduce risk factors for sexual violence.

Suicide

In 2013, suicide [254 KB] was the second leading cause of death among persons aged 15-24 years. Females are more likely than males to have suicidal thoughts. Learn about the warning signs of suicide and if these appear, connect the person to supportive services.

Teen Pregnancy

More than 86,000 teens ages 15 to 17 gave birth in 2012. Giving birth during the teen years has been linked with increased medical risks and emotional, social, and financial costs to the mother and her children. Becoming a teen mom affects whether the mother finishes high school, goes to college, and the type of job she will get, especially for younger teens ages 15 to 17. More can be done to prevent teens from becoming pregnant.