Challenges for public policies aimed at adolescence and youth based on the National Scholar Health Survey (PeNSE)

Abstract Objective to examine the problems and challenges facing implementation of policies for Brazilian adolescents, on the basis of narrative review of the findings of the National Survey of School Health (PeNSE). Methods theoretical policy analysis based on narrative review of the three editions of the PeNSE. The articles identified were categorised by priority issues for public policy intervention. Results cigarette smoking held stable, while use of other tobacco products increased by 18%. Regular alcohol use declined from 27.3% (2009) to 23.2% (2015). Drug experimentation increased, while family supervision produced protective effects against tobacco, alcohol and drug use. All indicators of violence increased, including involvement in fights where someone used a firearm or melee weapon. Diet and physical activity displayed predominantly unhealthy habits: (only 20% exercised for an hour or more daily). Sexuality: condom use at first intercourse decreased from 75.9% to 66.2%. Half the students had used a health service in the prior 12 months. Conclusion exposure to risk factors, including alcohol, unsafe sex and violent behaviour and conditions, is high in adolescence, making it important to adopt public policies and inter-sectoral actions that are plural and open to singularity in order to protect the health of adolescents and youth.