In a national survey, parents of children 9-17 years old were asked to indicate from a list of 18 topics which ones were “very important for the doctor to discuss” during preventive care visits. Here is how the parents responded:
- Diet and nutrition (75%)
- Exercise and sports (67%)
- Physical changes of puberty (60%)
- Drug use (55%)
- Tobacco (52%)
- Depression and suicide (51%)
- Obesity (51%)
Parents of 16-17 year olds also wanted the physician to discuss sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy with their child. Given that 50% of 11th graders in the U.S. report they have already had sexual intercourse, this may be too little, too late.
PositiveTip: Engage your children in discussions of risky behavior and health issues often. Do not rely only on the healthcare or educational system to help your children safely reach adulthood!