Exploring a Preliminary Set of Indicators to Measure Adolescent Health: Results From a 12-Country Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Global health
• Adolescent health measurement
• Public health indicators

Background:

• Measuring adolescent health is crucial for targeted interventions.
• The Global Action for Measurement of Adolescent health (GAMA) proposed 52 draft indicators.
• Assessing the global applicability of these indicators is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate data availability for 52 draft indicators for adolescent health.
• To assess the relevance, acceptability, and feasibility of implementing these indicators globally.
• To identify barriers and facilitators for adolescent health indicator implementation.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study in 12 countries.
• Online spreadsheet for data availability assessment.
• Stakeholder surveys and virtual meetings for relevance, acceptability, and feasibility evaluation.

Main Results:

• Data availability for the 52 draft indicators varied significantly across countries.
• Most indicators were relevant, but acceptability and feasibility differed, particularly for mental health and sexual health indicators.
• Higher data availability and alignment with national priorities correlated with greater relevance, acceptability, and feasibility.

Conclusions:

• The draft GAMA indicators show promise for adolescent health measurement, with relevance and feasibility generally high.
• Contextual priorities and perceived acceptability significantly influence indicator implementation.
• Enhanced multi-sectoral coordination and tailored capacity building are vital for widespread adoption and comprehensive adolescent health monitoring.