The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #60839

Dian J. Harrison, CEO, MSW, Planned Parenthood Golden Gate, 815 Eddy Street, San Francisco, CA 94109, 415-441-7858, ebrooks@ppgg.org

Ethiopia is experiencing a public health crisis among teenage girls as a result of FGM, abduction, early marriage and illegal abortion. This presentation will examine the systemic barriers to reproductive healthcare and harmful traditional practices that have oppressed generations of teenage girls across the country. They are among the most disempowered members of society and suffer from the most harmful of practices. This presentation will highlight and examine the current state of health for teenage girls in Ethiopia and the largest barriers to care they face. The presentation will conclude with recommendations for change and an action plan for improving conditions.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify and list 4 barriers to reproductive healthcare for poor teenage girls in Ethiopia.
• Describe the 4 most critical health issues for poor teenage girls in Ethiopia.
• Articulate at least 3 actionable ways to begin improving reproductive health conditions for poor teenage women in Ethiopia.

Keywords: Adolescents, International, Female Genital Mutilation

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.