Adolescent Health Series: The health of adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa: Challenges and opportunities

Trop Med Int Health. 2021 Nov;26(11):1326-1332. doi: 10.1111/tmi.13655. Epub 2021 Aug 12.

Abstract

Objective: This article provides a concise overview of the current challenges that adolescents face in sub-Saharan Africa, summarises possible solutions and ongoing efforts to implement these, and briefly introduces the subsequent papers of this series.

Methods: We draw on data from the WHO Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health and Ageing Data Portal.

Results: The opportunity provided by the growing number of adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa will only be realised if they survive, are healthy, receive a quality education and remain in Africa rather than joining the increasing out-migration exodus. Fortunately, there is an increasing focus on adolescent health and well-being both globally and in sub-Saharan Africa, and growing knowledge of what to do to promote adolescent health and well-being and how to do it, and a powerful resource in the form of adolescents themselves.

Conclusion: There is no time to lose. African adolescents demand it, but are also ready to be part of the solution.

Keywords: adolescents; challenges and opportunities; sub-Saharan Africa; young people.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Health / trends*
  • Adolescent Health Services / trends*
  • Africa South of the Sahara
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Young Adult