Metrics details. Globally, the research knowledge gap exists in the sexual reproductive health SRH services of street adolescents. The intensity of the problem is high in settings like Ethiopia, where there are limited access and integration of services. This study aimed at exploring risky sexual behaviors, needs, and barriers of SRH services among street adolescents in Nekemte town.
A community-based cross-sectional study design with mixed approaches was used on a sample size of street adolescents. Supplementary qualitative data of 24 in-depth interviews were collected from the street adolescents and SRH service providers. Time-location sampling or venue sampling technique VDT was used for a quantitative study. Quantitative data were analyzed by SPSS version Behavioral change and sustainable access to SRH services are lacking among street adolescents.
The Knowledge gap is more evident in early adolescents 10β13 period than the other classes. In general, street adolescents are deprived of access to SRH services. Mobile and flexible access to contraceptives should be designed targeting street adolescents. Adolescence is a transition period between childhood to adulthood 10 to 19 years , which is marked by a continuum of physical, mental, behavioral, emotional, and social changes.
Streetlife is a global phenomenon and increasing in urban areas of developing countries like Ethiopia. Adolescents on streets are neglected in policy and action to access SRH services [ 1 , 2 ].
Street adolescents are pushed to street life by complex factors: socioeconomic, political, cultural, and global opportunities and challenges. The intensity of the problem is high in settings like Ethiopia [ 3 , 4 , 5 ]. Systemic reviews and studies in Africa show that street children are exposed to street life, mainly due to poverty and abuse.
