Trends in adolescent and young adult health in the United States.
This review presents a national health profile of adolescents and young adults (ages 10-24). The data presented include trends on demographics, mortality, health-related behaviors, and healthcare access and utilization, as well as the most significant gender and racial/ethnic disparities. Although the data show some improvement, many concerns remain. Encouraging trends-such as decreases in rates of homicide, suicide, and some measures of reproductive health-appear to be leveling off or, in some cases, reversing (e.g., birth and gonorrhea rates). Large disparities, particularly by race/ethnicity and gender, persist in many areas. Access to quality healthcare services remains a challenge, especially during young adulthood. Policy and research recommendations to improve health during these critical periods in the lifespan are outlined.
Mulye
Tina Paul
TP
Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143-0503, USA.
Park
M Jane
MJ
Nelson
Chelsea D
CD
Adams
Sally H
SH
Irwin
Charles E
CE
Brindis
Claire D
CD
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003710:Demography; D005260:Female; D006296:Health Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D054624:Health Status Disparities; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009026:Mortality; D012309:Risk-Taking; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D055815:Young Adult