Introduction to Adolescent Health and LifestyleRelated Diseases
Page: 1-13 (13)
Author: Aditi Singh* and Abhishek Nandy
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010003
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Adolescence is a crucial developmental stage that has long-term effects on a
person's health and well-being as well as the welfare of society at large. Children learn
how to understand abstract concepts, form moral beliefs, and create and sustain
fulfilling relationships during adolescence. During adolescence, young people go
through a variety of transformations as they become physically adults. Changes in the
youth begin with the appearance of secondary sexual traits. Dynamic brain
development that is distinguished by interaction with social circumstances throughout
adolescence impacts the talents that a person carries into adulthood. In girls, there is the
onset of the menstrual cycle, which leaves a big impact on their body. Adolescents
across the globe have a lifestyle risk index comprising risky drug and alcohol
consumption, unprotected sex, sleep duration, and smoking, which is a fair to good
indicator of medical conditions connected to lethal (performing suicide and self-harm)
and non-fatal (major depressive disorders and severe psychological distress) diseases.
According to the findings of this study, the lifestyle risk index is a valuable summary
indicator in the context of teenage health promotion and noncommunicable disease
prevention. Adolescent lifestyle risk variables were discovered to cluster, giving
additional backing for the deployment of numerous health behavior modification
interventions rather than those having a single behavior emphasis.
Emotional and Cognitive Development in Adolescents
Page: 14-36 (23)
Author: Sowmya Kumar, Athira R. Nath, Shubha and Santosh Anand*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010004
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
The development of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying higher
cognitive capabilities and social and emotional behavior occurs most rapidly during
adolescence. However, emotions are intricate phenomena made up of several subprocesses. In this article, we make the case that looking at emotional and cognitive
development from a process-level approach enables crucial insights into the
mechanisms underlying teenagers' fluctuating moods and increased risk of
psychosocial changes. Adolescence is also a time when emotional capacity changes,
including enhancements in affective modulation and emotional cue discrimination.
According to functional imaging studies utilizing cognitive and affective difficulties,
frontal cortical networks go through developmental changes in processing. The
complex paths that intersect in a unique way during adolescence are revealed by
comparing the developmental progressions for the physiological sensitivity to emotion,
emotional regulation ability, and motivation to experience particular affective states.
We analyze how these overlapping trajectories may affect both positive outcomes, such
as adolescent social relationships, and negative consequences, including psychosocial
behavioral changes.
Effect of Mass Media on the Psychological Development of Adolescents
Page: 37-51 (15)
Author: Rishika Singh*, Abhishek Nandy and Sana Moid
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010005
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
On the mainstream media, a platform that constantly evolves, youngsters
may communicate with one another, express themselves, and share material of all
types. It has led to the establishment of a brand-new cultural framework that affects
how people interact as well as how organizations and technologies are used.
Hypothetically, mass media is considered an instrument with two sharp blades.
Although it provides benefits, children may experience some drawbacks as well. Even
though mass media is typically discussed negatively, there are some compelling
arguments in its favor. Juveniles and adolescents have the capacity to be
knowledgeable viewers of media. They do not just take in everything they see, read, or
hear on social networks or in the headlines. You can help kids develop the skills
necessary to control media effects. Teenagers and young people are vulnerable to
intentional and direct media influence. The news media might potentially indirectly
affect anything. In a nutshell, youth are significantly impacted by the media. It may
influence how they think and act, which may cause severe social difficulties. This
matter should be managed by adults.
Adolescent Nutritional Requirements: Myth vs. Reality
Page: 52-67 (16)
Author: Sakshi Srivastava, Harshit Mishra, Harshit Jaiswal, Vartika Nishad, Parul Johri*, Manish Singh Rajput, Ritesh Pandey and Mala Trivedi
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010006
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
In order to stay healthy, you need to eat a variety of nutritious food every
day. Teenagers go through big physical changes in puberty. They need extra nutrition
to cater to these changes. The level of physical activity and stage of development will
determine exactly how much healthy food one needs. Nutrition is the study of food in
relation to the health of an individual, community or society and the process through
which food is used to sustain life and growth. Good nutrition means eating the right
amount of healthy food and not skipping meals. Essential nutrients are compounds that
the body cannot make or have in insufficient amounts. According to the World Health
Organization, these nutrients must come in food and are vital for disease prevention
and good health. These essential nutrients are calcium, iron, protein, zinc and
micronutrients like vitamin D, vitamin E, potassium and fiber. Adolescents tend to eat
more meals away from home. Eating the wrong types of food after long intervals and
unhealthy eating can cause nutritional deficiency in adolescence. Adolescence needs
extra nutrients for optimal physical growth, bone growth and strength, pubertal growth
and development, hormonal changes, organ and tissue development, including the
brain, increased physical activity levels and basal metabolic rate. Adolescence is a
growing phase of life, and having a balanced food is very important. Adolescents
should not skip their breakfast; they should drink plenty of water and limit highly
processed food, sugary drinks and eating out. Healthy eating habits and physical
activity help lower the risk of obesity during adolescence. Any nutritional deficiency
experienced during this critical time of life can have an effect on the future health of
the individual. All parents should pay attention to the nutritional needs of their
teenagers. Adolescence, the period between childhood and adulthood, is a window of
opportunity for improving nutritional status and correcting nutritional practices.
Eating Disorders in Adolescents
Page: 68-83 (16)
Author: Humaira Saeed, Aditi Singh* and Mohammad Haris Siddiqui
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010007
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Bulimia nervosa (BN) is a serious mental illness that frequently shows
symptoms in adolescence or early adulthood. Binge eating and incorrect compensatory
behavior to regulate weight are hallmarks of the eating disorder bulimia nervosa, which
can have potentially harmful consequences. Although the exact cause of bulimia
nervosa is unknown, it is most likely complex. The binge-like conduct linked to this
illness may be influenced by the anomalies in interoceptive function, notably of the
insula. Although the exact origin is unknown, scientists think a combination of genetic,
biochemical, psychological, social, and behavioral variables is to blame. Treatment for
bulimia will be more successful the sooner it is discovered. Treatments that work
concentrate on nutrition, self-worth, problem-solving, coping mechanisms, and mental
wellness. These therapies assist patients in the long-term maintenance of good
behaviors.
Physical Inactivity among Adolescents
Page: 84-94 (11)
Author: Abhishek Nandy*, Humaira Saeed and Aditi Singh
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010008
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Adolescence is a vital developmental stage in which personal lifestyle
choices and behavior patterns emerge, including the decision to be physically active.
Physical inactivity, lazy behavior, and low oxygen consumption are all substantial risk
factors for the development of chronic illnesses, which result in morbidity and death, as
well as an expensive burden on society from health and social care services and
decreased occupational productivity. During adolescence, a unique mix of biological
and psychological elements combine to generate a special necessity for health-related
physical exercise. At the same time, many of these variables operate as impediments to
encouraging youngsters to develop regular exercise routines. Teenagers and young
adults are becoming more aware of its importance, especially in light of our culture's
constant connectedness and media consumption. This chapter focuses on physical
inactivity among teenagers, the risks they promote and the different ways to cure such
problems.
Irregular Sleeping Patterns in Adolescents
Page: 95-106 (12)
Author: Humaira Saeed*, Medha Dwivedi, Sushmita Singh, Abhishek Nandy and Manish Dwivedi
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010009
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Sleep plays a critical role in sustaining health and well-being in teenagers
and young adults, and this link is increasingly studied. Many young patients who visit
doctors have problems or diseases that are related to sleep deprivation. Due to the
accelerated brain development that occurs throughout adolescence, sleep may be
especially crucial during this time. Pre-adolescents and teenagers have different
average sleep durations, but for both age groups, 9 hours seems to be the ideal amount
of sleep. However, evidence indicates that teenagers frequently do not get enough
sleep, particularly during the week when school is in session. Sleep has a variety of
purposes, such as fostering cognitive, physical, and immune development. Studies have
also shown a link between insufficient sleep and adult cardiac disease. Teenagers and
young adults are becoming more aware of its importance, especially in light of our
culture's constant connectedness and media consumption. This chapter focuses on the
irregular sleeping patterns among teenagers, the risks they promote and the different
ways to cure such problems.
Obesity in Adolescents-Causes and Consequences
Page: 107-120 (14)
Author: Devendra Singh* and Sunil Kumar Verma
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010010
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
In today's world, epidemic levels of kid obesity may be seen in both
industrialized nations and poor countries. It is common knowledge that excessive
weight gain and obesity in children have a detrimental effect on physical health as well
as mental health. Children who are overweight at a younger age are at a greater risk of
emerging non-communicable illnesses, such as cardiovascular and diabetes conditions,
including a greater possibility that they remain overweight when they reach adulthood.
It is believed that obesity is a disorder that may be caused by various different reasons;
however, the process of obesity is not completely understood. The increasing
prevalence of obesity around the globe may be attributed in large part to environmental
factors, the decisions that people make about their lifestyles and the cultural contexts in
which they live. It is generally believed that an increase in the amount of calories and
fat that one consumes is the main reason for obesity and overweight. Alternatively,
several facts show that factors influencing the worldwide increase in obesity rates
include extreme sugar intake in soft drinks and a continual reduction in physical
movement. Children’s obesity may have detrimental effects on a child's physical
health, along with their emotional and social health, as well as their sense of self-worth.
There is a connection between this and a child's poor scholastic progress as well as
their worse quality of life. In addition to juvenile obesity, a number of co-morbid
diseases are also prevalent in children. These co-morbid illnesses include hepatic,
metabolic, orthopedic, pulmonary, neurological, renal, and cardiovascular disorders.
Other co-morbid illnesses include diabetes and asthma.
Consumption of Drugs and Substances of Abuse among Adolescents: Risk and Reasons
Page: 121-140 (20)
Author: Shipra Srivastava*, Shreya Agrawal, Abhishek Nandy, Aditi Singh and Irena Kostova
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010011
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Adolescence is a crucial period of biological, psychological, and social
development; hence, it is at higher risk of drug use and its negative effects.
Adolescence is a crucial developmental stage that involves important behavioral,
emotional, social, and cognitive changes. Teenagers may be predisposed to begin drug
use, develop substance use disorders, and experience potentially substantial and
permanent substance-related negative outcomes due to the neurobiological changes
underpinning these intricate developmental processes. This chapter includes the study
of recent research on this complicated subject, which aims to guide clinical care and
research on teenagers. This chapter is about how addiction to drugs and substances of
abuse is spreading among the youth and has become a serious problem. The chapter
includes all the harmful effects of this practice among youth and how this habit is
disturbing the young minds of our country with its bad impact on the thinking and
decision-making power of youth, especially in the people taking drugs regularly. Types
of substances of abuse and drugs, along with the ways by which they are taken by
individuals, are also discussed in this chapter. Diseases associated with it and the
neurological disturbance created by such drugs in individuals who are habitual of
taking them are also reviewed and mentioned in this chapter in detail. Further, this
chapter includes the law and order followed in our country regarding drugs and
substances of abuse. Since addiction to the substance is a major problem, it is very
important to get rid of this habit; for this, some ways are being used. Adolescent
substance use is diverse, ranging from pathological to normal, and it can cause severe
short- and long-term illnesses and even mortality. Adolescent drug use issues must be
addressed by comprehending risk and resilience factors, underlying neurobiology, and
the best developmentally sensitive therapies.
Prevalence of Tobacco Use and Alcohol Consumption among Adolescents
Page: 141-157 (17)
Author: Anushka Jain*, Ayushi Keshri, Kumari Deepali, Abhishek Nandy, Aditi Singh and Apurva K. Srivastava
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010012
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Adolescence is a period in the life of an individual from 10 years to 19 years
of age. This stage is marked by rapid physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth in
an individual and is a very crucial stage for their development. This is the time when
the foundations of a healthy or unhealthy lifestyle are laid, and these habits may
continue for a lifetime. Current research studies show high growth in the number of
adolescents involved in risky behaviors, and this has become a matter of concern. The
prevalence of risks in alcohol and tobacco consumption has increased tremendously.
Tobacco and alcohol are known to be ‘gateway drugs’ as they are the first to be
consumed when an individual starts such practices; the reasons are their easy
availability, peer influences, acculturation, or even family history of substance use
disorder. To decrease this and establish a healthy lifestyle, teenagers need proper
information and guidance, including opportunities that may lead them to actively
participate in interventions that are aimed to improve their physical and mental health.
Mostly, alcohol and tobacco are seen to be prevalent together. Adolescents who show
consistent drinking and tobacco smoking habits are more likely to show irritant, violent
behaviors. Also, they are at higher risk of developing drug habits like marijuana abuse
in their later stages of life.
This chapter basically examines the generality of tobacco and alcohol consumption,
especially among adolescents, and the ways in which it causes harm to adolescents and
its side effects. It gives an overview of the social, physical, and psychological effects it
has on adolescents’ lifestyles. It also covers risk factors and smoking and alcohol
cessation efforts in the population. It gives special consideration to smoking cessation
treatment, which includes peer influences, motivation, and nicotine dependence.
Anxiety and Depression-Related Problems Associated with Adolescents
Page: 158-178 (21)
Author: Devlina Ghosh* and Alok Kumar
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010013
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Adolescence, a transitional phase from childhood to adulthood, is marked by
several critical changes in the human body, whether emotional, physical,
psychological, or social. This sensitive phase, which primarily lasts from 10-19 years
of age, lays the trajectory for overall development and health among adults.
Neurobiological, environmental, genetic aspects, lifestyle, and behavioral factors, such
as eating disorders, substance abuse, social media, physical inactivity, sex-related
differences, etc., can lead to disease onset, with anxiety and depression being the
prominent ones. Besides, the adolescent brain is structurally different from the adult
brain, with varying levels of hormones and neurotransmitters, making it more
vulnerable to changes. Prevention, prompt diagnosis, and treatment are vital to
improving adolescent mental health. Preventive interventions and mental well-being
awareness are paramount to alleviating health loss. This chapter will mainly focus on
the molecular basis of the adolescent brain, causes and symptoms of anxiety and
depression, neuropsychiatric overview, appropriate measures for prevention, timely
diagnosis, intervention, and treatment, and the role of society in shaping the adolescent
brain.
Pollution and Youth Health
Page: 179-197 (19)
Author: Shreetama Bhattacharjee*, Yashvardhan Singh and Aditi Singh
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010014
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Adolescents and children have been deemed more vulnerable to the impacts
of air pollution than adults. Every day, almost 93% of the world's children and
adolescents breathe dirty air, putting their health and development in danger. It
demonstrates that pregnant women exposed to polluted air are more likely to give birth
prematurely and have small, low-birth-weight babies. Air pollution has an impact on
neurodevelopment and cognitive aptitude, as well as the risk of developing asthma and
pediatric cancer. Children who have been exposed to high levels of air pollution may
have a higher chance of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease
later in life. One reason children are especially exposed to the impacts of air pollution
is that they breathe faster than adults and thus absorb more toxins. They also reside
closer to the ground, where some contaminants reach peak concentrations, during a
period when their brains and bodies are still growing.
Numerous studies have revealed that air pollution has a negative impact on adolescents'
health, with a particular emphasis on physical disorders, such as respiratory ailments.
Furthermore, a few studies have found that kids who are exposed to poor air quality
suffer from increased fatigue and mental issues both during and after the exposure.
Air pollution is a global health concern that has major public health consequences,
especially for youth. In addition to short-term impacts, early exposure to criterion air
pollutants may be related to low birth weight, increased oxidative stress, and
endothelial dysfunction, all of which may have long-term consequences for chronic
noncommunicable diseases. Given the emerging epidemic of chronic disease in lowand middle-income countries, as well as the vicious cycle of rapid urbanization and
rising levels of air pollution, public health, and regulatory policies to protect air quality
should be integrated into the primary healthcare system's main priorities and health
professionals' educational curricula.
Subject Index
Page: 198-203 (6)
Author: Aditi Singh and Abhishek Nandy
DOI: 10.2174/9789815274400124010015
Introduction
Lifestyle diseases and related conditions present a major healthcare challenge for children, posing a significant threat to their well-being. The Editors have compiled chapters to present a multicentric approach to the subject. This book is an insightful reference on lifestyle diseases and its management in adolescents. It includes twelve topics with a focus on physical, emotional and behavioral aspects of lifestyle diseases. Starting with an introduction to lifestyle issues that can manifest into disease states, the book progresses to advanced topics, including emotional and cognitive developments, effects of mass media ranging from emotional and cognitive health, nutrition requirements and eating disorders, physical inactivity, eating and sleeping patterns, drug and alcohol-abuse, social behavior, anxiety and mental health. The book highlights the risk factors and determinants of these diseases, and where an immediate intervention is needed. An updated understanding of the diseases with scientific references gives readers crucial information for setting the groundwork for long-term public health policy formulation. This book serves as a primary resource for scholars and trainees in nursing, medical (pediatrics and endocrinologists) and paramedical courses who are required to understand lifestyle diseases with a focus on adolescents. Readers and professionals in public health, life-sciences and related disciplines can also use this as a secondary reference.