Introduction to adolescent health

This chapter describes adolescence as a highly dynamic developmental period where health risks and outcomes are shaped by biological development and social influences. Previously neglected, the world’s 1.8 billion adolescents constitute a quarter of the population and are supported by the new Global Strategy on Women’s Children’s and Adolescents’ Health. Investing in building adolescent capabilities and assets yields a ‘triple dividend’ by improving the health of adolescents, reducing the burden of disease in adults, and improving the health and development of the next generation. Adolescent health profiles differ greatly between and within countries, reflecting different social, educational, economic, cultural, and technological opportunities and risks; the focus of required investments must therefore match different needs. Investments extend from actions directed towards conspicuous health problems (e.g. HIV, asthma, anxiety) to emergent health risks (e.g. tobacco smoking), to broader social determinants (e.g. quality schooling, avoidance of child marriage).