Adolescence is a transition period from childhood to adulthood. 10 years to 19 years

WHY FOCUS ON ADOLESCENTS?

• 20% of India’s population = adolescents
• Period of rapid growth and change
• Good habits now- healthy adulthood

CHANGES IN ADOLESCENCE

• Physical: puberty, height, weight, periods, voice change
• Emotional : mood swings, desire for independence, curiosity and experimental
• Social : friendships become important, peer influence

COMMON HEALTH ISSUES

• Anemia- tiredness, poor concentration, fatigue, common in girls
• Obesity and overweight-linked to lifestyle, junk food
• PCOS- irregular periods, weight gain, acne, excess hair
• Infections- skin, urinary, reproductive tract( simple awareness)

PCOD

Genetic or life style disease

NUTRITION AND HEALTHY EATING

• Balanced meals: cereals, pulses, vegetables, fruits, dairy
• Iron rich foods: green leafy vegetables, jaggery, sprouts
• Calcium: milk, ragi, nuts
• Avoid: junk food, soft drinks, packaged snacks
• Hydration: 6-8 glasses of water daily, not energy drinks

MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL BEING

• Stress from exams and peer pressure
• Body image and low self esteem issues
• Signs of poor mental health: withdrawal, low mood, poor sleep
• Healthy Coping: talk to parents, teachers, friends, doctors
• Importance of hobbies and relaxation

VACCINATION AND PREVENTION CARE

• HPV vaccine- prevents cervical cancer
• Tetanus, Hepatitis, Rubella- equally important
• Regular health checkups(vision, dental, hemoglobin)

KEY TAKE HOME MESSAGE

• Eat healthy and stay active
• Care for mind and body
• Practice hygiene
• Take vaccine on time
• Seek help when needed

Dr. Mangala Keerthi

MBBS, DGO

Consultant – Obstetrician and Gynaecologist