By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - There is a disturbing report about an issue with teenagers that was not even on the radar a decade ago. Sexting is a word that combines sex and texting.

Now a new study finds that teens who engage in sexting are more likely to be sexually active.

According to leaders in the American Academy of Pediatrics, this is a very important warning that parents and physicians should take very seriously.

Sexting is the act of texting graphic pictures or notes of a sexual nature. In addition to the obvious concerns about these messages having the potential for widespread distribution, the new information reinforces the importance of attempts to limit this behavior.