Decisions made during the adolescent and young adult years can have profound and permanent impacts on health and well-being later in life. With the numerous social and academic pressures adolescents now face, it is imperative to provide them with education and counseling so they can develop healthy behaviors.
The specialty of adolescent medicine was developed in response to the unique health care needs of those aged 12-21 years. Knowledge of the physical, cognitive, emotional and social changes that adolescents undergo, as well as the disease processes that occur during this pivotal point in young lives, is vital in fostering healthy and happy adults.
