According to WHO, what is the Age Group of an Adolescent?

Appeared in: MP CHO-2020

Explanation

The World Health Organization (WHO) officially defines an adolescent as an individual in the 10 to 19 years age group.
This definition is used globally for statistical purposes, as well as for planning and implementing health programs and policies.
The period covers the onset of puberty and the transition through major physical, social, and psychological changes towards adulthood.
Source SRC_15616 explicitly states: 'The term “adolescence” has been defined as including those aged between 10 and 19...'.

Option A: This is incorrect. While close, the WHO standard for adolescence begins at age 10, not 9. Age 9 is typically classified as late childhood.
Option B: This is incorrect. This range, often called the 'teenage' years, does not cover the full period of adolescence as defined by the WHO, which starts earlier at age 10 to include early puberty.
Option D: This is incorrect. Individuals older than 19 are classified as adults. The WHO defines 'youth' as 15-24 years and 'young people' as 10-24 years, but adolescence specifically ends at 19.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain WHO definition of adolescent age group as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This standardized definition is crucial for targeting public health interventions. For example, India's Weekly Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation (WIFS) program specifically targets the 10-19 year age group to combat anemia.
It also guides the development of school health programs, reproductive and sexual health education, and mental health services tailored to the unique needs of adolescents.
What if? If the definition was 13-19 years, younger adolescents (10-12) might be excluded from crucial early interventions for nutrition, vaccination (like HPV), and mental health support, potentially leading to poorer long-term health outcomes.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question based on a definition from a major health organization.
First, identify the key terms in the question: 'WHO' and 'Adolescent'.
Recall the specific age range defined by the World Health Organization for this group.
Scan the options to find the one that exactly matches the official definition.
Eliminate options that are close but not precise (e.g., starting at 9 or 12) or are clearly outside the range (e.g., more than 19).

Concept Tested & Keywords

Qp7JOXwKEaaTKsSwppLlQP

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart A (pp 1-232 of 464) p. 96-98

Practise the full MP CHO-2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.