Health Problems In Adolescence

1.1 ADOLESCENT ANEMIA-NEED FOR CONCERN. Adolescence is one of the most rapid stages of human development. Adolescence is a period of human life with specific health and developmental needs and rights. It is also a period to develop knowledge and skills, learn to manage emotions and relationships, and acquire attributes and abilities that will be more important for enjoying the adolescent years and executing adult roles. Adolescence is a transitional period between childhood and adulthood marked by profound physical, physiological, sexual and psychological changes. The existence of certain health problems during adolescence, includes substance use disorders, mental disorders,anemia and injuries reflects both the biological changes

Iron deficiency anaemia occurs at all age of the life cycle, but is more prevalent in pregnant women and young children. Adolescent’s girls are specifically vulnerable to iron deficiency. The highest prevalence is between the ages of 12-15 years when demand are at a peak. In South-East Asia Region, except Thailand, more than 25% of adolescent girls are reported to be anaemic; in few countries the prevalence is as high as 50%.The World Health Report (2002) stated iron deficiency anaemia was one of the 10 most serious risks in countries with high infant mortality accompanied by high adult mortality and reported that measures to address iron deficiency anaemia are the most cost effective public health

Educational programs were differentiated for each of the target audience (pupils of 5-7 classes, 1-4 year students of the medical school, the adult unorganized population; n = 645). Their efficacy was evaluated with the use of issues included in the educational program and analysis of the actual nutrition (only in groups of students and adults). Performance assessment were: testing on the issues included in the educational program and analysis of actual of dietary intake (only in groups of students and adults).. An analysis of the frequency of food consumption with an estimation of the actual consumption of nutrients was carried out at the initial and final points. There were also noted positive changes in the structure of nutrition of study participants 12 months after the intervention: in relation to the initial level there was increased consumption of ascorbic acid and calcium in students, decreased consumption of animal fats in adults and students, there was noted a trend towards increased consumption of dietary iron. The obtained results testify to the effectiveness of educational programs as a means for the improvement of the structure of the nutrition in different groups of the population and primary prevention of micronutrient deficiencies and diseases with dietary risk factors,