Dever’s Model in Adolescent Pregnancy; An Epidemiological Review and Practice Recommendations for Health Care Providers

Adolescent pregnancy rates in the United States (U.S.) have declined over the past few years. However, adolescent pregnancy remains an important public health issue in the U.S. Teen pregnancy continues to adversely affect the mom, infant, and community. Adolescent moms are more likely to engage in substance abuse, have lower socioeconomic status, and are more dependent on public assistance. Infants born to adolescent moms are more likely to suffer from health care issues such as low birth weight, neonatal death, and sudden infant death syndrome. Furthermore, adolescent pregnancy is estimated to cost US taxpayers 9 billion dollars each year. Despite the decline in the adolescent pregnancy rates, Healthy People 2020 identifies decreasing adolescent pregnancy as a priority in increasing the overall health and wellness of U.S. citizens. Epidemiologic studies can be used to identify adolescent pregnancy causal relationships, provide and understanding for these relationships, and recommend prevention options. Dever’s model is used to analyze how adolescent pregnancy is influenced by human biology, life-style, environment, and the health care system. Health care providers serve as advocates for adolescent health and play an integral role in the reduction of adolescent pregnancy. However, in order to provide evidence-based and holistic patient care, providers should be knowledgeable with issues surrounding adolescent pregnancy.