14 May 2014 - MedicalXpress - Depression top cause of illness in world's teens, WHO says

Depression is the top global cause of illness and disability for adolescents, with suicide the third-biggest cause of death, the World Health Organization said on Wednesday.

The finding is in a new report by the UN agency, which has pulled together a wealth of published evidence with direct consultations with 10 to 19-year-olds around the world to assess the health issues that affect them.

"The world has not paid enough attention to the health of adolescents," says Flavia Bustreo, head of the WHO's family, women and children's health division.

Some studies show that half of all people who develop mental disorders have their first symptoms by the age of 14, said the report.

"If adolescents with mental health problems get the care they need, this can prevent deaths and avoid suffering throughout life," it said.

The study looked at a broad range of issues, including tobacco, alcohol and drug use, HIV, injuries, mental health, nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, and violence.