Many unhealthy behaviors often begin during adolescence and represent major public health challenges. Substance abuse has a major impact on individuals, families, and communities, as its effects are cumulative, contributing to costly social, physical, and mental health problems.

Adolescent health and development are key foundations for a country's economic development and political stability.

West and Central Africa (WCA) is the region of the world with the largest percentage of young people and the highest gender disparity in education. A number of factors are responsible for the persistent gender disparities in education.

Early adolescence, age 10 to 14, is a pivotal moment in the lives of young girls and boys around the world.

The number of young people with perinatally acquired HIV is growing significantly. With antiretroviral drugs, children who get infected at birth with HIV have an opportunity to graduate into adolescence and adulthood.

This systematic review looks at levels of STI awareness, knowledge and perceived risk of school-going adolescents in Europe. Fifteen studies were included, all of which cross-sectional and conducted among 13 to 20 year olds. Awareness and knowledge varied depending on gender.

This rapid assessment was undertaken from August to November 2010 and included within that period research, interviews and report writing. The goal of the assessment was to assess and document: 1.