Adolescent health

Abstract

Adolescence is a unique developmental period when young people experience pivotal biological, psychological, social and cognitive changes as they transition from child to adulthood. Although mortality rates among young people are considered to be relatively low, the rate at which mortality is falling among adolescents does not mirror the significant declines seen in other age groups.

Research in adolescent neurocognitive development has shown a high degree of plasticity that may be particularly sensitive to experiences and environments. Adolescence represents a significant opportunity for many youths to feel empowered and learn important life skills. Adolescents are often simultaneously exploring new experiences and potentially engaging in risk behaviors that can significantly interfere with their health trajectories.

Adolescents are also uniquely vulnerable to relational, cultural, and other environmental factors that contribute to health. Notably, the top two causes of death, unintentional injury and suicide, are influenced by the social networks, systems and environments where young people live and therefore could be prevented with effective interventions and services.

Important contributors to morbidity among adolescents include substance use, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), mental illness (e.g. eating disorders), non-communicable diseases (e.g. obesity), and other chronic issues (e.g. chronic fatigue syndrome) which impact their quality of life.