Adolescent medicine
Article Abstract:
In the field of adolescent medicine, sexually transmitted diseases have increased in importance. Syphilis has become more common among teenagers, as has infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, given the slow rate at which HIV infection progresses, the real impact of these adolescent infections will not be felt for many years. Measles also remains a problem for adolescents. Now that many American children are vaccinated against measles, the illness has become most prevalent among teenagers, which has prompted health officials to recommend a booster vaccination at 12 years of age. Unwanted pregnancy continues to be a major health problem among teenagers. The most important development in this area is a contraceptive method called Norplant. Six slender Norplant tubes are implanted under the skin, which allow the drug norestrel to slowly diffuse out into the body. This method provides birth control for five years. Throughout history, drug use has been a common problem among adolescents, and this remains true in 1991. Accurate data are difficult to obtain, as might be expected, but indications are that cocaine use, alcohol consumption, and marijuana use are falling, while cigarette smoking and amphetamine use have risen. In the past, most drugs were used for their effects on the mind, but it is now becoming more popular to use drugs to improve appearance. Steroid use has become common, as have diet pills and diuretics. The increase in drug use to improve appearance has been accompanied by an increase in drug abuse among girls. One recent discovery important to the practice of adolescent medicine is that bone density during the adolescent years has an important contribution to bone health in later life. Anorexia nervosa or strenuous athletic activity sufficient to suspend menstruation, may affect the bone density in adulthood and increase the risk for osteoporosis later in life. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1991
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Adolescent medicine
Article Abstract:
The American Medical Association is developing a national health policy for adolescent medicine, a recognition of the specific needs teens. The American Board of Medical Specialists approved a subspecialty designation under the American Board of Pediatrics in 1991, another reflection of concern. The US Office of Technology Assessment has stated that adolescents need more access to health care, an improved environment and that federal efforts to improve adolescent health must be intensified. These objectives are difficult to achieve as many teens do not have the social, environmental and economic support for healthy development. Death rates for teens declined from 1979 to 1985 but have increased among 15 to 19 year olds due to homicide and suicide. Sexual activity has increased with an associated increase in health consequences such as teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted disease.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1992
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Placing emergency contraception in the hands of women
Article Abstract:
The 'Yuzpe regimen', an emergency contraception (EC) prevents unwanted pregnancy in 75% of the cases if taken within 72 hours of an episode of unprotected intercourse. Making EC available over-the-counter prevents the need for insurance, offers timely access, and eliminates the need for a physician visit for women who would find seeking EC embarrassing or otherwise difficult to accomplish.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2005
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