RESUMO
Suicide is a major public health problem in the United States. Suicide and attempted suicide are important causes of morbidity and mortality in adolescents. Epidemiologic trends in adolescent suicide point to increasing rates of suicide and increasing access to lethal attempts, particularly firearms. It is important for clinicians to recognize risk factors for suicide, but it is even more important to screen all adolescents for suicidal thoughts and feelings. This article highlights important publications from the past year (April 2000 to April 2001) regarding adolescent suicidal behavior, with particular focus on risk factors, recognition, and management.
Assuntos
Prevenção do Suicídio , Adolescente , Humanos , Medição de Risco , Fatores de Risco , Comportamento Sexual , Suicídio/estatística & dados numéricos , Estados UnidosRESUMO
This review discusses important research findings regarding adolescent tobacco use reported from April 1999 to March 2000. Although the vast majority of adult smokers began before 1 8 years of age, a significant number of college students seem to be initiating smoking behaviors. Recent literature reviews pointed to cultural as well as neurochemical factors that lead to increased tobacco consumption while creating barriers to quitting. Psychosocial and behavioral correlates of cigarette smoking revealed the role that tobacco use plays in coping with cultural, social, and intrapsychic demands. In addition to understanding why and how adolescents initiate and maintain cigarette smoking, recent studies also attempted to uncover the correlates of quitting behavior. However, recent reports of school-based intervention trials revealed that reproducible, long-term success rates may not be achievable with a single program or approach. Finally, several recent studies explored the role that health care providers play in prevention and intervention, as well as the pitfalls of well-meaning office interventions.
Assuntos
Comportamento do Adolescente/psicologia , Fumar , Adolescente , Humanos , Papel do Médico , Fumar/epidemiologia , Fumar/psicologia , Abandono do Hábito de Fumar/métodos , Prevenção do Hábito de Fumar , Estresse PsicológicoRESUMO
Adolescent patients with amenorrhea often present to primary care providers. A basic understanding of menstrual and pubertal physiology enables clinicians to initiate the clinical evaluation. A thorough history and physical examination focusing on pubertal development indicate the appropriate diagnostic algorithm. Usually, an accurate diagnosis can be obtained quickly. Management includes restoring ovulatory cycles if possible, replacing estrogen when necessary, reassurance, and re-evaluation.
