Patterns and determinants of risky sexual behaviours among high school students in Lome, Togo: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundAdolescent sexual and reproductive health remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, where early sexual debut, unsafe practices, and limited agency contribute to adverse outcomes. Despite policy efforts, empirical evidence on risky sexual behaviours (RSBs) among in-school adolescents in Togo remains scarce. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2023 and March 2024 among 461 high school students aged 15-23 years selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analysed with descriptive statistics, bivariate correlations, and multivariate logistic regression. RSB was constructed as a composite variable comprising inconsistent condom use, concurrent partnerships, substance-influenced sex, and casual sexual encounters. ResultsNearly half (47.3%) of respondents had engaged in sexual intercourse, and among these, 75% reported sexual debut before age 18. Over one-third (39%) had ever been involved in overlapping relationships, while only 56.4% reported inconsistent condom use. More than one-quarter (27.5%) described their first sexual experience as coerced. Logistic regression revealed that students in higher grades, those who initiated sex at or after age 18 (AOR = 5.53, 95% CI 1.54-19.85), and those whose first sexual experience was coerced (AOR = 5.85, 95% CI 1.15- 29.72) were significantly more likely to engage in RSBs. Frequent pornography consumption also increased odds of RSB (AOR = 12.49, 95% CI 4.28-36.46). ConclusionsRSBs among high school students in Lome reflect complex interactions between developmental, relational, and digital factors. The findings highlight critical gaps in sexual health literacy, consent negotiation, and online safety. Strengthening comprehensive sexuality education, integrating digital literacy into school curricula, and reinforcing gender-transformative interventions are essential to promote informed, safe, and equitable adolescent sexual practices in Togo.