Test your knowledge of what it takes to be a healthy teen.
1. At what age does the adolescent growth spurt usually begin for girls?
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The growth spurt in girls typically occurs two years earlier than in boys. Girls can have their growth spurt as early as ages 6 or 7, but it typically occurs at age 11. Body parts may grow at different rates, and teens often appear clumsy and feel awkward during this period.
2. How much calcium per day does an adolescent need?
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Both boys and girls need a calcium-rich diet during their teen years to ensure they store up enough calcium in their bones.
3. Routine physical examinations should be done how often during the teen years?
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A health care provider should monitor adolescent growth and development on a regular basis; ideally, once a year.
4. What immunizations should teenagers have?
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The Tdap booster is recommended for teens at ages 11 to 12. Teens 13 to 18 who missed getting the Tdap booster at ages 11 to 12 should also receive it. Those who received a tetanus-diphtheria (Td) booster at ages 11 to 12 should receive Tdap for additional protection against pertussis. Teens should also get a "catch-up" immunization for measles, mumps, and rubella, and chickenpox, if they missed a recommended dose in childhood.
5. Which eye problem typically gets worse during adolescence?
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Nearsightedness, or myopia, usually starts in childhood and then gets progressively worse during the teen years. The progression usually eases up by the time a person reaches his or her mid-20s.
6. Anabolic steroids, though illegal, are still used by adolescent athletes to enhance athletic performance. Which of these groups is most likely to use them?
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According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the percentage of use increases from eighth grade to 10th to 12th grade.
7. Which of these may be signs of alcohol or drug abuse?
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They may also be symptoms of illness. Check for drug paraphernalia, and have your pediatrician examine the teenager to rule out other possible causes.