A risk profile comparison of homeless youth involved in prostitution and homeless youth not involved.

All initial visits (n = 620) of runaway/homeless youths to an outpatient medical clinic over a 12-month period (July 1988-June 1989) were analyzed. Of these visits, 467 made by youth not involved in prostitution were compared with 153 visits by youth who were involved. According to the data from an adolescent risk profile interview, homeless youth involved in prostitution are at greater risk for a wide variety of medical problems and health-compromising behaviors, including drug abuse, suicide, and depression. The implications for public health and social policy are discussed.