Adolescent health in Russia: a view from Moscow and St. Petersburg.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to report on the current state of adolescent health in Russia.

METHODS

By means of site visits, literature review, discussions with Russian colleagues, and a scientific meeting in Moscow, data were collected on health status of youth, the organization of health services, and professional training.

RESULTS

Youth over the age of 14 are served in the adult health care system. Youth clinics are just now emerging. Substance abuse is a major issue; AIDS is rare. Rates of sexual intercourse parallel many western European countries; however, contraception is expensive by Russian standards and often not used. Those with behavioral, physical, and intellectual impairments tend to be educated in special settings and managed by psychiatrists.

CONCLUSION

The Russian health care system is undergoing radical transformation. The traditional Soviet system, with its heavy reliance on medical interventions and prolonged inpatient hospitalizations, is threatened by a lack of resources. Privatization of health care poses additional threats, as do the social transformations that are occurring. These changes create a very uncertain future for the health and well-being of youth in Russia.