Status of Adolescent Health In India

Abstract

Adolescent health represents a critical public health concern in India, with approximately 253 million adolescents aged 10-19 years constituting the world's largest adolescent population. This study examines the comprehensive status of adolescent health in India, focusing on nutritional deficiencies, mental health challenges, substance abuse, and reproductive health issues. The hypothesis posits that multifactorial determinants including socioeconomic status, educational attainment, and geographical location significantly influence adolescent health outcomes. Utilizing a cross-sectional analytical approach, secondary data from National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-2021) and published literature were systematically reviewed. Results reveal alarming prevalence rates: 59.1% anemia among adolescent girls, 45% undernutrition in girls and 20% in boys, 7.2% adolescent pregnancy, 25-39% depression, 4.5% drug abuse, and 50% of HIV-positive new infections occurring in 10-25 years age group. Statistical analysis demonstrates significant associations between adverse health outcomes and rural residence, low socioeconomic status, and limited education. Discussion emphasizes urgent need for strengthened policy interventions including enhanced implementation of Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram and adolescent-friendly health services. The study concludes that comprehensive, multi-sectoral approaches addressing nutritional, mental, reproductive, and behavioral health are essential for improving adolescent well-being and ensuring India's demographic dividend.

DOI: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/01.2026-62318779