The State of Adolescent Health in Alaska.

N

57

Academic Achievement; Adolescents; Antisocial Behavior; Contraception; Emotional Problems; Family Characteristics; Family Environment; Mental Health; Nutrition; Obesity; Physical Health; Pregnant Students; Public Schools; Secondary Education; Secondary School Students; Sexual Abuse; Sexuality; State Surveys; Student Attitudes; Student Behavior; Substance Abuse; Suicide; Tables (Data)

A survey was conducted to provide a profile of the health status and risk behaviors of youth in Alaska. The goal was to develop a statewide database which, when coupled with morbidity and mortality data, would provide information that would allow those who plan and develop services at state and local levels to better target those services. During the 1988-89 school year, surveys were received from 5,458 students in grades 7 to 12 in 27 school districts across Alaska representing 13% of the total state enrollment in these grades. The survey contained 162 questions on a range of issues, including: health status; health-related behaviors; family life; feelings about school and school performance; behaviors and attitudes about foods and eating; use of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs; sexual behavior and contraception; and involvement in antisocial or deviant behaviors. Numerous tables and figures present findings in these areas. Results suggest that most youths surveyed see themselves as physically healthy, but because of their dietary or behavioral patterns, some have risk factors that predispose them to chronic illnesses later in life. Most also see themselves as emotionally healthy, although a number have serious problems. Findings, it is emphasized, apply primarily to public school students living in rural areas, villages, rural highway communities, and regional centers. The report concludes with a set of challenges for Alaskan communities to meet in order to help Alaskan youths grow up to reach their full potential. (GLR)

1992

ED344698