Presenter: Josefine Ortiz Wolfe, PhD, RDH

Format: Audio - MP3 File Download $18

Adolescents (ages 10 to 17) and young adults (ages 18 to 25) make up 22% of the United States population. HPV, HIV, and STDs are a rising health concern for Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) populations. The behavioral patterns developed during these evolving periods will determine young people?s current health status and their risk for diseases during adulthood. AYAs are particularly sensitive to their social environments. Adolescence is a critical developmental, transitional period, strengthening the positive-growth of young people aids their adoption of healthy behaviors. Young adults who have reached the age of maturity also face significant social and economic challenges with few organizational supports. Dental health providers are in a unique position to bolster positive health behaviors, as well as educate the AYA patient of the connection between overall health and oral health.