Are Teenagers taking care of themselves

Teenagers and young adults' odds of survival vary drastically throughout the world. In 2020, sub-Saharan Africa, Oceania (apart from Australia and New Zealand), northern Africa, and southern Asia had the highest mortality rates among those aged 10 to 24. (1). In sub-Saharan Africa, the likelihood of a 10-year-old dying before age 24 was on average six times greater than it was in North America and Europe.

• Alcohol & Drug use

In many nations, teen alcohol use is a serious problem. It can weaken self-control and encourage harmful behaviours like unsafe sex or reckless driving. It is a root cause of injuries, violence, and early deaths, especially those brought on by auto accidents. It may also shorten life expectancy and cause health issues in later years. A total of 155 million teenagers, or more than a quarter of the world's population between the ages of 15 and 19, are current drinkers. Males were particularly at risk for excessive episodic drinking, which was prevalent among teenagers aged 15 to 19 in 2016.Cannabis is the most often used psychoactive substance among youth, with 4.7% of those between the ages of 15 and 16 reporting using it at least once in 2018. 

• Nutrition & Micronutrient Deficiencies

The second most common reason for teenage years lost to death and disability in 2019 was iron deficiency anaemia. Supplements including iron and folic acid are an additional method for promoting health prior to adolescent parenthood. To avoid micronutrient (including iron) deficits, regular deworming is advised in regions where intestinal helminths like hookworm are prevalent.The cornerstone for excellent health in adulthood is the development of appropriate eating habits in adolescence. Access to nutritious meals and a reduction in the promotion of foods rich in saturated fats, trans fats, free sugars, or salt are crucial for everyone, but especially for kids and teenagers.