Kathmandu
The World Health Organization has urged Southeast Asian countries to adapt health systems to meet the needs of adolescents, aged 10 to 19. It was stated that focusing on adolescent health can provide immediate, future, and intergenerational benefits.
Investing in adolescent health is seen as cost-effective, with a potential return of 5 to 10 times for every dollar spent. Despite this, approximately 670 adolescents die daily in the region due to issues such as adolescent pregnancy, mental health, and noncommunicable diseases. Many health issues faced by adolescents are preventable or treatable, but barriers to access remain significant, worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Although progress has been made in policy and program development for adolescent health, challenges persist. Health systems are often designed for other age groups and do not adequately address adolescent needs. Services have focused mainly on sexual and reproductive health, lacking a comprehensive approach that includes mental health and prevention of violence.
The WHO emphasized the importance of incorporating adolescent and family input into health service design, ensuring accessible, high-quality care for all. This approach aims to strengthen primary health care and support Universal Health Coverage goals.
