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10 facts on adolescent health

September 2008

Girls in a school classroom, Ghana.
UNAIDS/L.Taylor

A huge proportion of the world's population - more than 1.75 billion - is young, aged between 10 and 24 years.

Adolescents (aged 10 to 19 years) have specific health and development needs, and many face challenges that hinder their well being, including poverty, a lack of access to health information and services, and unsafe environments. Interventions that address their needs can save lives and foster a new generation of productive adults who can help their communities progress.

This fact file explores topics of concern to adolescents and strategies to improve their health across the globe.

Read more about adolescent health

Related links

Child and adolescent health and development

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