Adolescent Health Concerns in Urban Ethiopia: Stakeholders’ Perspectives

Adolescents (10-19 years of age) in low-income settings face unique health challenges. This study explores adolescent health concerns and existing efforts to address them in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A qualitative study using in-depth interviews with key informants and focus group discussions was conducted with adolescents, parents, school staff, government officials, and nongovernmental organization representatives (n = 36). Data were analyzed thematically using Open Code qualitative software. Our results showed that menstrual hygiene, unintended pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and access to sexual and reproductive health information and services were among the most pressing health concerns of adolescents. Addiction, bullying, violence, and trauma are some of the main challenges concerning mental health. Adolescent health concerns are multiple. Multidimensional efforts are necessary to address their concerns.