Chernick LS, Chun TH, Richards R, et al. - Researchers sought to perform a multicenter emergency departments (EDs) study with the aim to ascertain the prevalence of sex without contraceptives among adolescent ED patients. Further, they examined patient demographic and risky behaviors correlated with sex without contraceptives. From 16 pediatric EDs across the United States, 3,247 participants (aged 14 to 17 years) completed an electronic survey. Inquiries centered on verified measures of risky sex; use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and other drugs; and depression and violence. Sex without contraceptives was reported by 17.4% (236/1,356) of males and 15.8% (299/1,891) of females in the prior year. This indicates that adolescent ED patients across the United States are participating in risky sexual behaviors enhancing their likelihood of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection acquisition. The multivariable model suggested the higher likelihood of having sex without contraceptives for both genders among teens who were black, with conduct problems and participated in casual sex, binge drinking, or cannabis use. Hispanic and cigarette-smoking males, as well as depressed females also exhibited higher likelihood of having sex without contraceptives. The ED visit seems to be a chance to recognize at-risk adolescent patients, approach risky behaviors, and intervene to promote adolescent health.