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.