Risks for Young People

Tobacco use.

Unhealthy dietary behaviours.

Inadequate physical activity.

Alcohol and other drug use.

Sexual behaviors that may result in HIV infection,

 other sexually transmitted diseases, and unintended pregnancies.

Behaviors that may result in violence and unintentional injuries (for example, injuries from motor vehicle crashes).

Among both children and adults, the leading causes of death are closely linked to these behaviors. Among adults, chronic diseases — such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes — are the nation’s leading killers. Practicing healthy behaviors, such as eating low-fat, high-fruit-and-vegetable diets, getting regular physical activity, and refraining from tobacco use, would prevent many premature deaths.

Because health-related behaviors are usually established in childhood, positive choices need to be promoted before unhealthy behaviors are initiated or become ingrained.