The main health issues affecting young people today are linked either to behavior or an unprotected environment, ranging from physical injury, substance abuse, mental illness, or sexual and reproductive health, including sexually transmitted diseases like HIV/AIDS.

Too many young people aren't aware of specific health risks, and too many don’t have access to appropriate health services and information. This situation calls for intensified efforts to advocate for youth-accessible health services and increase awareness among youth. You can push for more youth-friendly health care laws, low-cost and confidential health services, and increased health education programs in your school or community.