ABSTRACT
This chapter covers some of the more obvious issues to do with young people's health. While most teenagers could be described as healthy, there are a small number who suffer from health problems such diabetes, asthma or other long-term conditions. These young people will need ongoing medical help. The more parents can be informed, the more they will be able to provide reassurance and advice when young people have concerns about their health. Food and food intake have an obvious relevance to the health of a teenager. Obesity is a world-wide concern for public health specialists, but it is of particular concern for those interested in adolescent nutrition. This chapter considers what parents can do to provide support for a teenager if he or she is experiencing mental health problems. It also explains the effects of the use of Smoking, drugs and alcohol, all of which can play an important part in the lives of teenagers.
