Guide teens to healthy lifestyle choices

THE EDITOR, Sir:

The Sunday Gleaner's (July 18) highlight on the effortless purchase of cigarettes by minors reflects the general plight of our adolescents. Most health-damaging behaviours are learnt during this time and present a critical window of opportunity to prevent the development of adult diseases that can lead to death.

Heart disease, diabetes, cancer, obesity, HIV, substance abuse are a few that come to mind, not the least of which is the epidemic of violence, where youths are the main perpetrators.

We have no control over genetics and some environmental factors that contribute to disease, but we can guide our adolescents in healthy lifestyle choices and life skills. A supportive environment, such as youth-centred health and social services, church and family-focused initiatives and stronger sanctions against those who sell alcohol and cigarettes to minors, are a few suggestions that may help to protect our adolescents from themselves. A more focused approach is needed to help them make a healthy and productive transition into adulthood.

I am, etc.,

Dr Tracy Evans-Gilbert

Consultant paediatrician/ public-health specialist

Cornwall Regional Hospital

Montego Bay

Via Go-Jamaica