Pre-marital sex and its predicting factors among Malaysian youths

Introduction This study aimed to examine the prevalence of pre-marital sex and its predicting factors among youth trainees undergoing a national skill training programme in the state of Malaysia. Methods Participants filled up health screening surveys at the beginning of their training period. A total of 1328 out of 1377 trainees were included in the study. Logistic regression was done to determine the potential predicting factors of pre-marital sex among the trainees. Results Most trainees were 18 years old (97.1%) and 56% were female and 44% were male. The prevalence of pre-marital sex among trainees of these youths was 4.6%. A total of 6.2% of the female trainees as compared to 2.6% of their male counterpart had had pre-marital sex. Analysis using multiple logistic regression revealed only six significant predictor variables which were religion, race, lover, reading or watching porn, masturbation and bullying. Conclusion The prevalence of pre-marital sex amongst Malaysian youths is low as compared to those in developed countries. However, as pre-marital sex and pregnancy outside wedlock are largely socially unacceptable in Malaysia and may be kept hidden from others, the complications and social problems that may follow from this behaviour should be taken into consideration. Measures such as sex education and awareness programmes are needed among youth to curb this phenomenon from becoming a social as well as a public health concern.