Cuidate: implementation of a culturally based sexual risk reduction program for Hispanic adolescents

Birth rates for adolescents have been declining in the United States since 1991 for all races. However, the rate for Hispanic teens still remains significantly higher than those for White teens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that community-based organizations implement evidence-based programs to address the risky sexual behaviors of adolescents. Cuidate is an evidence-based sexual risk reduction program designed specifically for Hispanic adolescents ages 13-18 years. The program uses Hispanic cultural beliefs to influence the use of abstinence and condoms as culturally accepted practices. The purpose of this article is to describe the implementation of Cuidate at a federally funded community health center to reduce the sexual risk behaviors of the adolescent Hispanic population it serves.