Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #105074

Shannon L. Deike-Sims, BS Mathematics, Institute for Circumpolar Health Studies, University of Alaska Anchorage, 3211 Providence Dr., Mail Stop: DPL BLDG. STE 404, Anchorage, AK 99508, 907-786-6578, shannon@uaa.alaska.edu

Background: The Family and youth homeless population is the largest growing segment of the homeless population in the United States. This population has also grown in the state of Alaska. Risk taking behavior is an inherent part of the subculture of the homeless teen population. The behavior associated with being homeless along with little family and peer support does not lend itself to a healthy life for homeless youth.

Study and Design: This review examines the at-risk behavior that is associated with being homeless, and examines previous research conducted with homeless adolescents to assess some of the health care resources available to this population. Articles were found through a search of the University of Alaska Anchorage library website database. Local data on homelessness was gathered from the Alaska Housing and Finance (AHFC) Homeless Service Providers Survey, and interviews were conducted with a local shelter for homeless teens.

Results: In order to survive youth may participate in risky behavior often associated with drug and alcohol use. They are also more vulnerable to respiratory illness, sexually transmitted diseases and infections, as well as skin infections due to not having a consistent place to reside.

Conclusion: It is not known at this time if available resources for homeless adolescents are adequate to serve them. Outreach to the homeless youth community is challenging but needs to continue so that their health care and nutritional needs can be met.

Keywords: Alaska, homelessness, adolescents, health, illness, and outreach

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the particiapant(s) in this session will be able to

• Describe the health disparities and health needs of homeless teens in an urban setting
• List potential food and nutritional, and health care resources available to homeless teens
• Apply this knowledge in community wellness programs, school settings
• Identify needs for future research

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.