Runaways have a high risk of contracting an STD

Everyone is at risk of developing a sexually transmitted disease (STD) if they do not practice safe sex. While the chances of developing these conditions are not limited to one group in particular, some populations carry a higher rate of infection. Recently, research has shown that adolescents who run away from home are more likely to have a variety of health problems as adults, such as STDs.

The study, conducted by the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS), found that teens who run away are 53 percent more likely to report contracting an STD during their lifetime. This population also has higher chances of being smokers and using illegal drugs. Researchers expressed hope that these statistics will encourage more prevention efforts to keep kids from running away.

"We hope that identifying the long-term consequences of running away will encourage parents, teachers and other adults to get involved earlier to prevent a runaway situation," said Maureen Blaha, NRS executive director. "If youth are aware of the consequences, maybe they won't consider running away as the answer to solving their problems."

Runaways were also found to make almost $9,000 less a year than the average salary, and are an alarming 99 percent more likely to sell drugs.