This conference proceedings examines the key issues common to nutritional disorders in adolescents. Data is presented to address the genetic, behavioral, and environment contributors to nutritional disorders, including diet, exercise, body composition, dyslipidemia, and risk-taking behavior. The effects of changing roles of women and ideals in body shape on eating habits are examined, as well. Since 1991, the percentages of American teenagers getting pregnant, giving birth, or having abortion have all fallen. Of course, these improving numbers are still far from ideal and this report presents compelling data and challenges readers to work to reduce the teen birth rate by one third by the year 2005.
Adolescence is a critical time for the current and future health of women.
In these formative years, experiences of violence or abuse, risky behaviors, access to health care, and supportive relationships can either enhance or undermine teen health, as well as shape the quality of life in years to come. This survey explores the current state of girls' health and the challenges they face navigating the often turbulent teenage years. The work of the National Center for Schools and Communities is not simply to reform schools, but to transform them into places that serve and respect the whole child and the child's family. In this paper, Joy Dryfoos describes the variety of community schools across the country and suggests action. This report presents model community-based health programming in which the W. K. Kellogg Foundation has invested.