To the editor:

Recently I was informed that a textbook used in Texas to teach students prevention of sexually transmitted diseases is severely lacking in important facts. There is only passing mention of prophylactics, and (it) concentrates mainly on abstinence.

I understand that many schools and organizations may lose funding if they teach anything other than abstinence as a means of prevention. However, this quote from the textbook is utterly ridiculous: “One of the best ways for girls to prevent themselves from getting sexually transmitted diseases is to get enough sleep so that they are clear-headed about their choices.”

This is absurd. Sanctioned misinformation such as this is part of the reason we’re now seeing 12-year-olds wearing birth control patches and sex becoming the same as a handshake for junior high, and even elementary school, students. I encourage all parents to educate their children on these issues and to be actively involved in what they learn in school. Someone must do it properly.

Hagen Miller,

Lawrence