JAMA : the journal of the American Medical Association
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The consequences of childbearing for adolescent parents, their children, and society are severe. We have focused exclusively on one consequence of adolescent sexual activity, namely, pregnancy. In so doing we are not denying the presence of other serious consequences of sexual activity, including sexually transmitted diseases, particularly the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. ⋯ They also are in influential positions to improve the availability of preventive contraceptive services through development of community-based services. The Robert Wood Johnson High-Risk Youth Programs are an excellent example of the types of community-based services that should be provided for adolescents. Physicians can serve as an educational resource about a wide spectrum of health issues for young persons and their families and communities.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)