OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Figures released earlier this year show that Wapello County has one of the highest rates of teen pregnancies in the entire state of Iowa. Currently, the rate is at 13.5%. These figures are not sitting well with community leaders.
Several years ago, members of the community formed the Wapello County Teen Pregnancy Task Force. The organization is made up of professionals in the community who provide a service to help reduce the number of teen pregnancies. Doctor Ted Haas, an OBGYN, is one of those members.
KTVO spoke with Doctor Haas Monday.
“The problems that teen pregnancy creates are medical as well as social and educational. The young women who end up getting pregnant, particularly while in high school, have a significantly higher rate of dropping out before graduating. Their infants are more likely to be raised in poverty, and they are more likely to be raised in a single parent home, which leads to difficulty educational opportunities for them,” said Doctor Haas.
Doctor Haas also told KTVO that the task force is working with juniors and seniors in high school to mentor 5th and 6th graders about the ramifications of teen pregnancy. Haas told KTVO that the high school students are able to talk to the younger children about abstinence and the importance of graduating from high school before engaging in sexual activity.
The doctor believes that parents need to realize they hold a lot of power in their children’s lives.
“I think the most important message is parents, please realize you have a big impact on what your children do. Don’t be shy talking to them about making good healthy choices,” said Doctor Haas.
If you believe you or know of someone that could use the guidance of the Wapello County Teen Pregnancy Task Force, Doctor Haas has asked that you contact Tracey Boxx-Vass. You can contact her at the American Home Finding Association. The phone number is 641-682-8784.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKTVO