Gaps in pre-pregnancy health for adolescents, young adults need urgent attention

ADELAIDE: Pre-pregnancy health initiatives have long focused on improving maternal and child health, yet adolescents and young adults, especially males, remain underrepresented in these efforts, according to a comprehensive review from the University of Adelaide’s Robinson Research Institute and School of Public Health. The study, published in Public Health, calls for urgent action to close these gaps and improve long-term health outcomes.

The evidence map, encompassing data from 2010 to 2023, reveals that health programs are predominantly concentrated in high-income countries, with 88% targeting females. Researchers identified significant deficits in addressing critical areas such as mental health, prevention of domestic and sexual abuse, substance and tobacco use, lifestyle improvement, and comprehensive sex education for individuals aged 10 to 25 years.

"It wasn’t surprising to find limited preconception health initiatives for males," said Associate Professor Zohra Lassi, senior author of the study. "However, we were surprised by the minimal focus on substance use prevention, nutrition, and violence prevention, despite their profound impact on pregnancy and child health outcomes."

The review analyzed 124 research papers from 18 studies and highlighted an urgent need for behavioral interventions beyond monitoring adverse events related to human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. "Adolescence is a critical time for adopting lifelong health behaviors," noted lead author Zahra Ali Padhani. "Intervening early can shape future health outcomes and reduce preconception-related risks."

The researchers urge global health systems to broaden their messaging, integrate HPV vaccinations into national immunization programs, and prioritize male preconception health. Addressing these gaps, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, can significantly reduce adverse outcomes and break cycles of poor health.

Ms. Padhani emphasized that holistic approaches to risk assessments, nutrition education, and family planning during adolescence could yield transformative, population-wide benefits. “The impact of targeted pre-pregnancy health initiatives extends far beyond individual families; it improves community health and promotes generational wellbeing,” she said.