SALUD Y SEXUALIDAD EN LA POBLACIóN JUVENIL DEL DEPARTAMENTO DE CALDAS

this work is part of the results of the macro-project "characterization of juvenile human development in caldas colombia" in the area of health and sexuality. objective: to recognize the characteristics of health and sexuality of young people in caldas. methods: the area presented (health and sexuality) was quantitative with youth population of 237,130 in caldas department, the sample was of 4,479 young people with a sampling design (simple random). results: there is difference in gender regarding health condition, 91.6% of men reported a positive response, and in women was 87.6%. the chi-square showed dependence between these variables p < 0.000. the identified health problems were smoking and not practicing sports, respiratory problems, stress, depression and heart problems. the registration in health services showed a gender difference, being higher in women, there is dependence between these variables, p 0.004. the sex ratio compared to having had sexual intercourse was 75.5% versus 74.8% in men and women. the average age of first intercourse was 15.6 years old. 38.9% used a contraceptive method at first intercourse. conclusion: there are gender differences for categories such as health status, use of family planning methods, people who they had first and last intercourse with, and abortion.