Sexual health is gaining recognition as a crucial aspect of comprehensive health and wellness, especially as evidence mounts on the adverse long-term effects of untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) on reproductive health for all genders. Given the social and structural dimensions of ongoing HIV/STI transmission, the World Health Organization (WHO) has broadened the definition of sexual health to emphasize wellness, noting the importance of factors like consent, autonomy, education, pleasure, and sexual encounters that are free of violence, in addition to prevention and treatment. Despite advancements in addressing HIV through innovative interventions and recognition of social determinants, a global rise in STIs persists, particularly in industrialized nations. It is therefore necessary to revisit the intersectionality of HIV and STI management and address the stigmas and inequalities that hinder comprehensive sexual health and wellness.

This Research Topic highlights the ecological determinants of sexual health and wellness across the lifespan through an asset-based lens. We aim to shift the focus from problems to potentials at both the individual and community level, and we invite holistic work that critically assesses interpersonal, social, and structural determinants and strengths through implementation science and community engagement research. This collection conceptualizes sexual health and wellness as encompassing biological, physiological, social, and cultural dimensions; affirms health as a human right; and acknowledges that differences in health outcomes are primarily shaped by social (i.e. anti-Blackness, tribalism, gender inequality) and structural environments (i.e. policy), individual and interpersonal behavior, and ultimately the interplay between these factors. We recognize that these influences are highly contextual and seek works that reflect this complexity.

Contributions to this Research Topic may address the following themes and issues, among others:

1. Interpersonal, social, and structural considerations to prioritize sexual health and wellness, emphasizing health equity across the lifespan and working to reduce social inequalities
2. Leveraging community and structural strengths to prioritize sexual health and wellness
3. Integrating and implementing psycho-social and biomedical interventions
4. Utilizing cultural humility in health discussions and interventions
5. Developing comprehensive recommendations to enhance health equity and efficiency in addressing sexual and reproductive health issues

Dr. Natalie Leblanc's research has received financial support from Gilead Sciences.

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Addressing Sexual Health and Wellness: Personhood, Community Strengths, and Structural Dimensions