Hyderabad, Oct 07: Adolescence is a crucial phase marked by significant physical and psychological changes, and young people require age-appropriate healthcare as they transition from childhood to adulthood, doctors said at a national symposium on “Adolescent Surgery and Transition Care” held in Hyderabad.
The symposium was organised by KIMS Cuddles, under the guidance of the IAPS-AASTC Chapter, bringing together paediatric surgeons and healthcare professionals to discuss the specific healthcare and surgical needs of adolescents.
An Adolescent Clinic was launched at KIMS Cuddles as part of the programme. The clinic aims to provide age-appropriate medical care to adolescents and identify and treat conditions requiring surgical intervention, said Dr. Yoga Nagendhar, Chief Consultant Paediatric Surgeon, Paediatric Urologist, Laparoscopic Surgeon and Robotic Surgeon.
Speaking at the symposium, Dr. Yoga Nagendhar said some children have congenital conditions, developmental problems or health conditions that continue from childhood into adolescence and require ongoing medical care.
“It is important to ensure that children who have been receiving treatment under paediatric care do not face any interruption when they transition to adult healthcare services. A structured transition process can help ensure continuity of treatment and appropriate follow-up,” he said.
The symposium discussed various health conditions seen during adolescence, surgical procedures, minimally invasive surgical techniques, urological and gastrointestinal conditions, and health problems specific to adolescent girls. Experts also discussed the management of conditions that may become apparent or require intervention during the adolescent years.
Doctors emphasised the importance of involving adolescents and their parents in healthcare decisions. Open communication about health concerns, respecting adolescents’ views, maintaining privacy and providing appropriate counselling were highlighted as important aspects of adolescent care.
The experts also stressed that parents should pay attention not only to the physical health of adolescents but also to their psychological and social well-being. Regular follow-up was considered particularly important for adolescents with chronic or long-standing health conditions.
Better coordination between paediatric and adult healthcare specialists can help adolescents receive continuous and appropriate care during the transition to adulthood, the doctors said.
The programme was organised by paediatric surgeons Dr. Yoga Nagendhar, Dr. Manisha Reddy, Dr. Avinash Palreddy and Dr. Aashish Kodali. Dr. Narendra Kumar, Dr. K. Ramesh Reddy and Dr. Babu attended the programme as chief guests.
