Trend in incidence (2005–2022) and medical and social problems in 15–17 years adolescents

Abstract

Introduction. The analysis of the incidence in adolescents (15–17 years old inclusive) showed its significant increase during the first two decades of the XXI century. The prevalence of borderline mental disorders among adolescents and cases with deviant behaviour, unhealthy lifestyle, conflict and difficult life situations are increasing. Adolescents and young people need comprehensive medical care, managed with taking into account age-related psychological and social characteristics. The purpose of the study is to analyze the trend in health indicators of older adolescents, social problems affecting the development of their health and education, and scientific substantiation of the main directions and principles of managing medical care and social assistance to adolescents and youth. Materials and methods. According to official statistics, a comparative analysis of the incidence in 0–14 years children and 15–17 years adolescents for the period 2005–2022 was carried out by the main classes of somatic pathology and mental disorders. According to scientific literature, basic information about the medical and social problems in adolescents and 15–25 years youth has been systematized. Results. Analysis of the incidence in adolescents showed its growth and revealed classes of diseases for which the rates of adolescents are higher than in children. This allows determining the main directions of treatment and preventive work. The main medical and social problems of adolescents include: health risks caused by educational factors; unhealthy lifestyle; destructive forms of behaviour; early sexual activity; early employment; professional choice that does not correspond to individual health characteristics. Limitations. The considered medical and social problems are characteristic of older adolescents (15–17 years old inclusive) and young people. Conclusion. Due to the high incidence and unfavourable course of pathologies, psychological characteristics, and the significant prevalence of medical-social problems in adolescence and young people, it is advisable to create medical-social centers for adolescents and youth on the basis of medical institutions in the country.