Milestone to health for all

Sexual health matters have been largely limited to published figures of the number of sexually-transmitted infections or the number of teenage pregnancies. However, sexual health is far more encompassing than that.

The training of people delivering care is one of the strategic approaches towards enhanced sexual health- Joe Cassar

The World Health Organisation clearly outlines the wide definition of sexual health, whereby it is described as being a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being. Sexual and reproductive health and well-being are essential if people are to have responsible, safe and satisfying sexual lives. So we are departing from the previous mentality of disease, dysfunction or infirmity but taking a more positive approach to human sexuality with an understanding of the complex factors that shape human sexual behaviour.

Health professionals dealing with people of any age, gender or health status will, at some time in their professional experience find themselves dealing with issues of sexual health in their respective professional role. Also, health professionals are vital to the maintenance of an individual’s sexual health and promotion of responsible sexual behaviour. Other professionals, including teachers, youth workers, psychologists, psychotherapists, counsellors, religious workers and social workers, have a comparable role to play in their respective profession.

Given the complex subject of sexual health, it is essential for professionals to have the necessary training to be competent in providing the best service. Basic knowledge of human sexuality, a respectful attitude towards persons with different sexual orientation and sexual practices and basic skills in identifying and, if necessary, referring to the appropriate professional problems of sexual health are the education and training requirements for health professionals put forward by WHO.

The sexual health policy launched in November 2010 has clearly noted that limited knowledge and skills among professionals creates a barrier to the management and, more importantly, to the prevention of sexual health problems.

Our aim is to address the needs of our society. The training of people delivering care is one of the strategic approaches towards enhanced sexual health. Training will cover knowledge, attitudes and skills development. Professionals will be equipped with the attributes needed to help perceive sexuality as a positive integral component of health for oneself and for others.

The focus will be on the positive aspects of sexuality, hence, developing a positive attitude for the attainment of sexual health.

WHO strongly recommends the development of a neutral and positive understanding and approach to sexual health, away from heavy specific cultural and religious parameters.

As part of the underpinning elements arising from the sexual health strategy, which has just been launched, the Ministry for Health, the Elderly and Community Care will be is offering a series of free training sessions for professionals at the end of this month. These will cover the basis of sexuality and reproductive health. The courses are relevant to anyone who works in the fields of education, youth or health-care clinical settings wanting to increase or refresh their knowledge pertaining to sexual health matters.

Further training sessions will be offered, based on the outcomes of more training needs analysis, which will be carried out across respective professions.

All the actions arising from the sexual health strategy will be on the road map towards the achievement of optimal health for all, which my ministry, of course, holds as the ultimate aimed destination.

I thank all who have contributed towards determining the referred map. I am confident that we will keep working at getting as close as possible to our destination together.

Dr Cassar is Minister for Health, the Elderly and Community Care.