AboutKidsHealth for Teens

 

 

Thyroid cancerTThyroid cancerThyroid cancerEnglishOncologyPre-teen (9-12 years);Teen (13-15 years);Late Teen (16-18 years)ThyroidEndocrine systemConditions and diseasesPre-teen (9-12 years) Teen (13-15 years) Late Teen (16-18 years)NA2019-09-03T04:00:00Z7.9000000000000065.9000000000000528.000000000000Flat ContentHealth A-Z<p>Thyroid cancer starts in the thyroid gland in the front of the neck. Find out how it is diagnosed, treated and the prognosis.</p><h2>What is thyroid cancer?</h2> <figure><span class="asset-image-title">Thyroid gland</span><img src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/Thyroid_gland_IMD_EN_72.jpg?Rendition=10" alt="" /><figcaption class="asset-image-caption">The thyroid gland is in the front of the neck and is shaped like a butterfly. It produces a very important hormone called thyroid hormone.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Thyroid cancer is a cancer in your thyroid gland. Your thyroid gland is in the front of your neck and is shaped like a butterfly. Your thyroid gland makes hormones. These are chemicals that travel through your blood to other parts of your body and control other cells and organs.</p><p>The hormones from your thyroid gland control:</p><ul><li>your growth and how you develop</li><li>your metabolism (how fast or slow the cells in your body work)</li></ul><h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck and is responsible for making hormones that control growth and metabolism.</li><li>The most common type of thyroid cancer in teenagers is called papillary thyroid cancer.Thyroid cancer is diagnosed through blood tests, an ultrasound and biopsy.</li><li>Treatment for thyroid cancer may include surgery, radioactive iodine treatment and hormone therapy.</li></ul>

 

 

 

 

Thyroid cancer3430.00000000000Thyroid cancerThyroid cancerTEnglishOncologyPre-teen (9-12 years);Teen (13-15 years);Late Teen (16-18 years)ThyroidEndocrine systemConditions and diseasesPre-teen (9-12 years) Teen (13-15 years) Late Teen (16-18 years)NA2019-09-03T04:00:00Z7.9000000000000065.9000000000000528.000000000000Flat ContentHealth A-Z<p>Thyroid cancer starts in the thyroid gland in the front of the neck. Find out how it is diagnosed, treated and the prognosis.</p><h2>What is thyroid cancer?</h2> <figure><span class="asset-image-title">Thyroid gland</span><img src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/Thyroid_gland_IMD_EN_72.jpg?Rendition=10" alt="" /><figcaption class="asset-image-caption">The thyroid gland is in the front of the neck and is shaped like a butterfly. It produces a very important hormone called thyroid hormone.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Thyroid cancer is a cancer in your thyroid gland. Your thyroid gland is in the front of your neck and is shaped like a butterfly. Your thyroid gland makes hormones. These are chemicals that travel through your blood to other parts of your body and control other cells and organs.</p><p>The hormones from your thyroid gland control:</p><ul><li>your growth and how you develop</li><li>your metabolism (how fast or slow the cells in your body work)</li></ul><h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck and is responsible for making hormones that control growth and metabolism.</li><li>The most common type of thyroid cancer in teenagers is called papillary thyroid cancer.Thyroid cancer is diagnosed through blood tests, an ultrasound and biopsy.</li><li>Treatment for thyroid cancer may include surgery, radioactive iodine treatment and hormone therapy.</li></ul><p>The most common type of thyroid cancer in teens is called papillary thyroid cancer, which grows very slowly. Remember, a tumour grows from a mutation in a cell that causes the cell to divide out of control. The tumour is the mass of cells that is eventually formed. </p><p>Usually, the first sign of thyroid cancer is a lump or swelling in the neck that slowly gets bigger. There is usually no pain. </p><h2>How is thyroid cancer diagnosed?</h2><p>Doctors learn what type of thyroid cancer you have through a process called diagnosis.</p><p>Usually diagnosis of thyroid cancer starts with a doctor examining you and asking you a lot of questions about how you are feeling and why you came to the clinic or the hospital. They will then do <a href="/Article?contentid=3438&language=English">blood tests</a> and an <a href="/Article?contentid=3445&language=English">ultrasound</a> scan of your neck. The doctor will do a <a href="/Article?contentid=3440&language=English">biopsy</a> where they will take a sample of part of the tumour and check for cancerous cells under a microscope. They may also do more <a href="/Article?contentid=3442&language=English">scans</a> to get a picture of the inside of your body. These can help the doctor see how big the tumour is and if the cancer has spread.</p><h2>How is thyroid cancer treated?</h2><p>Doctors use the information they gather to plan your treatment. Your treatment will depend on:</p><ul><li>the type of thyroid cancer you have</li><li>its stage (whether it has spread outside of the thyroid gland)</li><li>the size of your tumour</li></ul><p>Usually treatment for thyroid cancer includes <a href="/Article?contentid=3477&language=English">surgery</a> to remove the tumour, specialized treatment with radioactive iodine and hormone therapy if your entire thyroid gland has been removed by surgery. No chemotherapy in given to treat thyroid cancer. <a href="/Article?contentid=3471&language=English">Radiation</a> treatment is used only very rarely. The treatment is optional and is carried out by a doctor who specializes in treating the thyroid, called an endocrinologist, rather than an oncologist (doctor specialized in treating cancer). </p><h2>Prognosis for thyroid cancer</h2><p>Your doctor will probably talk to you and your family about the prognosis for your thyroid cancer. A prognosis means the likelihood or chance that treatment will work and that you will get better from cancer. Like your treatment, your prognosis will depend on where the tumour is located, the size of the tumour and whether it has spread.</p><p>The best source of information about your cancer is your health-care team. If you have any questions or there is anything you do not understand about your cancer, ask your doctors and nurses. They want to help you understand your cancer.</p><p>If you are nervous about asking the doctors or nurses yourself, you can talk to your parents/caregiver. They may be able to answer your questions or can help you ask questions when talking to the health-care team. </p>

 

 

Caffeine and energy drinksCaffeine and energy drinksCaffeine and energy drinksCEnglishNutritionTeen (13-18 years)NANAHealthy living and preventionTeen (13-18 years)NA2022-05-02T04:00:00Z8.8000000000000058.90000000000001280.00000000000Flat ContentHealth A-Z<p>Caffeine is a stimulant drug found in many drinks, treats and some medicines. Find out its effects on your body and how much of it is okay to consume per day.</p><h2>What is caffeine?</h2><p>Caffeine is a stimulant drug, which is a drug that can make you feel more awake, alert, confident or energetic. It can be found in coffee, tea, cola drinks, energy drinks, chocolate and certain medicine. You may find yourself reaching for foods and drinks that contain caffeine to help you study, prepare for a big game, or have fun during a party. While it's true that caffeine can give you an energy boost or help you focus, drinking too much can have a negative effect on your health. Caffeine can help you feel more alert and less tired; but for some people, too much caffeine can affect their sleep and cause vomiting, heart palpitations, diarrhea, agitation, and other types of unwanted effects. Instead of having large amounts of caffeine, consider healthy nutrition, <a href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3632&language=English&hub=mentalhealthAZ#adolescenthealth">quality sleep</a>, and <a href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3784&language=English&hub=mentalhealthAZ#adolescenthealth">regular exercise </a>to keep you energized all day.<br></p><h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>Caffeine is a drug that can be found in coffee, tea, cola drinks, energy drinks, chocolate and some medicines.</li><li>Caffeine is a stimulant, which is a drug that can make you feel more awake, alert, confident or energetic.</li><li>It is not recommended to have more than 2.5 mg of caffeine per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day if you are a teen 13 years of age or older.</li><li>The effects of caffeine on your body depend on the amount you consume, but everyone’s reaction is different. You should limit how much caffeine you have when possible, as it can cause dehydration and affect your sleep and heart rate.</li></ul><h2>Where can you find it?</h2><p>The main sources of caffeine are soft drinks, coffee drinks and energy drinks; but caffeine can also be found in tea, chocolate and other foods.</p><p>Examples of some of the most common sources of caffeine include:</p><table class="akh-table"><tbody><tr><td>Brewed coffee</td><td>95-200 mg (8 oz/237 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Monster Energy Drink</td><td>160 mg (16 oz/473 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Starbucks Frappuccino</td><td>115 mg (9.5 oz/281 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Red Bull Energy drink</td><td>80 mg (8.3 oz/245 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Iced tea</td><td>70 mg (12 oz/355 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Mountain Dew</td><td>55 mg (12 oz/355 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Vitamin Water Energy</td><td>50 mg (20 oz/591 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Clif Bar Peanut Toffee Buzz</td><td>50 mg (2.4 oz/71 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Diet Coke</td><td>45 mg (12 oz/355 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Peach Snapple</td><td>42 mg (16 oz/473 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Pepsi</td><td>38 mg (12 oz/355 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Coke</td><td>34 mg (12 oz/355 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Instant coffee</td><td>31 mg (1 teaspoon)</td></tr><tr><td>Dark chocolate</td><td>18 mg (1.45 oz/43 ml)</td></tr><tr><td>Hot chocolate</td><td>3-13 mg (8 oz/237 ml)</td></tr></tbody></table><h2>What are the effects of caffeine on the body?</h2><p>Small amounts of caffeine can make you more alert, help you focus, boost your mood and awareness, and speed up your reaction time. However, caffeine can also have some unwanted effects. The most common include:</p><ul><li>increased or irregular heartbeat</li><li>trouble sleeping</li><li>nervousness</li><li>restlessness</li><li>muscle twitching</li><li>upset stomach</li><li>increased urination</li><li>anxiety</li><li>diarrhea</li><li>dehydration</li></ul><p>The effects of caffeine can begin a few minutes after consuming it, and usually last for up to 6 hours.</p><h2>Which dose is recommended?</h2><p>For teens ages 13 and over, it is not recommended to have more than 2.5 mg of caffeine per kilogram of body weight per day.</p><table class="akh-table"><thead><tr><th>Example body weight (kg/lbs)</th><th>Limit of caffeine (mg/day)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>50 kg/110 lbs</td><td>125 mg</td></tr><tr><td>60 kg/132 lbs</td><td>150 mg</td></tr><tr><td>70 kg/154 lbs</td><td>175 mg</td></tr><tr><td>80 kg/176 lbs</td><td>200 mg</td></tr><tr><td>90 kg/198 lbs</td><td>225 mg</td></tr><tr><td>100 kg/220 lbs</td><td>250 mg</td></tr><tr><td>110 kg/243 lbs</td><td>275 mg</td></tr></tbody></table><p>For example, if you 15 years old and weigh 56 kg, your recommended daily allowance of caffeine is 140 mg. If you have three 8 oz cups of coffee a day, you would be drinking approximately 145-460 mg of caffeine over the recommended limit.</p><h3>Energy drinks</h3><p>Energy drinks (not to be confused with sports drinks) are not recommended at all for children or teens because of their high levels of caffeine, and other ingredients. It is possible that even just one energy drink can have more caffeine than your safe daily amount. Some of the unwanted effects of energy drinks include:</p><ul><li>Dehydration<br></li><li>Irregular heartbeat</li><li>Trouble sleeping</li><li>Feeling nervous or jittery</li></ul><p>If you are going to consume energy drinks, it is important to drink them in moderation and carefully read the label and follow any instructions. It can be dangerous to drink energy drinks on an empty stomach, and they should not replace food. It can also be dangerous to mix energy drinks with alcohol.</p><h2>What are the risks of having too much caffeine?</h2><p>Caffeine can have more than twice the impact on your body than it does on an adult’s, depending on your body weight. This means you are more likely to develop caffeine-related symptoms. Some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others. If you are sensitive to caffeine, just a small amount can have unwanted effects. In the long term, consuming too much caffeine can cause your body to lose calcium, resulting in weak bones (osteoporosis).</p><p>If you have too much caffeine in a short amount of time, it can cause overdose and toxicity. This is particularly common when consuming energy drinks. Symptoms of caffeine overdose can including vomiting, high blood pressure, irregular or racing heartbeat, disorientation, and seizures.</p><p>People can become dependent or addicted to caffeine. Those who feel “addicted” to caffeine may have trouble quitting or cutting back on their caffeine intake. Some people continue consuming it even though they experience unwanted side effects. Common withdrawal symptoms can include:</p><ul><li>headache</li><li>trouble concentrating</li><li>sleepiness</li><li>fatigue</li><li>irritability</li><li>difficulty completing tasks and problem solving</li><li>difficulty with coordination and balance</li></ul><h2>What can you do to limit caffeine intake?</h2><p>Before abruptly stopping consuming caffeine, it is important to identify if you have already developed a dependency. Dependency can feel like you can’t function or start your day without having caffeine, and you might feel jittery and have difficulty sleeping. If you are dependent on caffeine, try removing it from your diet gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.</p><p>There are many coffee alternatives that will provide you with adequate energy. For example, replace your morning cup of coffee with a healthy smoothie; before a sports event, drink plenty of water.</p><p>Limiting your caffeine in the afternoon and evening can also help you manage your caffeine consumption. Drinking caffeine in the early morning instead of in the evening can provide a boost in energy that can carry over the entire day and allow you to fall asleep comfortably at night.</p><p>It is also helpful to do a bit of research before consuming caffeinated products. Nutrition labels don’t list the amount of caffeine a product has, so you may want to do a quick search for the product's ingredient list on the company’s website. This list will show you how much caffeine the product contains.</p><p>Although caffeine can temporarily make you feel more awake, alert, confident or energetic, a healthy diet, exercise and good sleep are more likely to keep you energized all day without the need for stimulants.</p><h2>Resources</h2><p><a href="https://www.verywellhealth.com/effects-of-caffeine-on-teenagers-4126761">The Effects of Caffeine on Teenagers</a></p><h2>References</h2><p>Hammond D, Reid JL, Zukowski S. Adverse effects of caffeinated energy drinks among youth and young adults in Canada: a Web-based survey. <em>CMAJ Open</em>. 2018 Jan 9;6(1):E19-E25. Retrieved from <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5912944/">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5912944/</a>.</p><p>Pound CM, Blair B; Canadian Paediatric Society, Nutrition and Gastroenterology Committee. Energy and sports drinks in children and adolescents. <em>Paediatr Child Health</em>, 2017; 22(7):406–410. Retrieved from <a href="https://cps.ca/documents/position/energy-and-sports-drinks">https://cps.ca/documents/position/energy-and-sports-drinks</a>.</p>https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Teen%20site%20caffeine.jpgTeens
Information about vaping of nicotineInformation about vaping of nicotineInformation about vaping of nicotineIEnglishAdolescentTeen (13-18 years)NANAHealthy living and preventionTeen (13-18 years)NA2023-05-18T04:00:00Z8.5000000000000058.3000000000000646.000000000000Flat ContentHealth A-Z<p>Nicotine and cannabis are the two most common substances that can be 'vaped'. This document will focus on vaping of nicotine and the health effects that you should consider in your decisions about vaping.</p><h2>What is vaping?</h2><p>Vaping devices heat liquid into an aerosol that is inhaled into the lungs, and then gets into the bloodstream where it affects different parts of the body. There are a variety of different brands and types of vape devices. Some are single use, while others require the user to purchase ‘pods’ or cartridges of nicotine liquid. These are called e-liquids. E-liquids are made to have fruit, mint/menthol and candy or dessert flavours, which often results in someone using them much more often that they would smoke a tobacco cigarette.</p><h2>Why do teens vape?</h2><p>The most common reasons teens report vaping nicotine are:</p><ul><li>because they enjoy it</li><li>because they wanted to try it</li><li>to reduce stress</li></ul><h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>Nicotine is a highly addictive substance.</li><li>Many users are not aware of how much nicotine they are using when vaping.</li><li>Nicotine is a stimulant and can cause difficulties with sleep, appetite and anxiety.</li><li>If you have existing lung disease, such as asthma and cystic fibrosis, you should avoid using any inhaled substances.</li></ul><h2>What is known about the effects of vaping in teens?</h2><p>One pre-filled nicotine cartridge can contain the same amount of nicotine as one to two packs of cigarettes.</p><h3>Risks related to nicotine</h3><p>Nicotine is a highly addictive substance. Its use has been shown to impact brain development, and vaping with nicotine can lead to dependence. Nicotine dependence includes needing to use more nicotine over time to experience the same effects and feeling unwell when you do not use nicotine. Nicotine can also affect the body in other ways:</p><ul><li>For teens with existing physical and/or mental illnesses, vaping nicotine can worsen symptoms and potentially interact with medications used to treat illness.</li><li>Nicotine causes the heart rate to speed up and can increase blood pressure. </li><li>In large amounts, nicotine can cause tremors, difficulty with sleeping and increase in anxiety.</li></ul><h3>Risks related to the device (vape pen/e-cigarette)</h3><p>There are reports of the heating devices malfunctioning, resulting in burns if the devices are kept in a pocket. There are also reports of the devices exploding causing burns and other facial injuries.</p><p>If you share your vape or use someone else’s, this increases the risk of transmitting (or passing on) infections such as COVID-19 or other infections that are spread by droplets.</p><h3>Risks related to vaping liquids</h3><p>The ingredients typically found in vaping liquids include glycerol, flavours, propylene glycol and varying levels of nicotine. The long-term safety of inhaling these substances in vaping products is unknown and is being studied.</p><h2>What to do if you are vaping nicotine and want to stop</h2><p>If you are experiencing unwanted effects on your health from vaping nicotine, or you want to stop vaping to prevent health problems, there are ways to get help to stop.</p><p>Cutting back on how often you are vaping can be a first step. Getting rid of your vape pen and/or not buying new cartridges can make it easier not to vape. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is a safe way for teens to quit nicotine use. This can be bought at pharmacies in Ontario without a prescription. Note that different provinces have different coverage for NRT. The Lung Health Foundation has an app called <a href="https://www.quashapp.com/">Quash</a> that can give you ideas about how to successfully quit.</p><p>For additional support, speak to your doctor or nurse practitioner.</p><p><a href="https://kmb.camh.ca/uploads/734bed6e-06ed-492f-ab3f-83880985ac09">Vaping: What you and your friends need to know</a> — CAMH</p><p><a href="https://lunghealth.ca/tobacco/">Quitting tobacco/nicotine toolkit</a> — Lung Health Foundation</p><p><a href="https://www.quashapp.com/">Quash app</a> — Lung Health Foundation</p><p>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). <em>Quick Facts on the Risks of E-cigarettes for Kids, Teens, and Young Adults</em>. Retrieved from: <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/Quick-Facts-on-the-Risks-of-E-cigarettes-for-Kids-Teens-and-Young-Adults.html">https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/Quick-Facts-on-the-Risks-of-E-cigarettes-for-Kids-Teens-and-Young-Adults.html</a></p><p>Government of Canada. (2023). <em>Risks of vaping</em>. Retried from: <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/smoking-tobacco/vaping/risks.html">https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/smoking-tobacco/vaping/risks.html</a></p>https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Information_about_vaping_of_nicotine-Teens.jpg ​Nicotine and cannabis are the two most common substances that can be 'vaped'. Learn about the health effects of vaping nicotine. Teens
AlcoholAlcoholAlcoholAEnglishAdolescentTeen (13-18 years)NANAHealthy living and preventionTeen (13-18 years)NA2023-04-01T04:00:00Z9.5000000000000053.6000000000000843.000000000000Flat ContentHealth A-Z<p>Learn about alcohol and the associated health risks. Knowing the short- and long-term effects can help you make decisions about using alcohol.</p><p>About half of teens aged 15–19 report drinking alcohol in the past year. The average age of first use is 13.4 years, and the average age of binge drinking (five or more drinks at one time) for the first time is 14.5 years.</p><h2>How are teens using alcohol?</h2><p>Some teens decide that they are not going to try alcohol. Others are curious and may try alcohol at home with a family member or when they are with friends. Some will use it more regularly on weekends with friends, and a small percentage of teens may get to a point where they are drinking daily. The health effects of alcohol increase with both the amount taken and how often alcohol is used.</p><h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>Alcohol can impair decision making, which can put someone at risk of harm (e.g., unwanted sexual encounters or self-harm). </li><li>The most common pattern of alcohol use in teens is ‘binge’ drinking, which means to have five or more drinks at one time. </li><li>Using large amounts of alcohol (especially if alcohol is consumed quickly) can result in decreased consciousness, affect breathing and even result in death. </li><li>Using alcohol with other substances can put you at greater risk of serious health effects.</li><li>Alcohol can affect how other medications (over the counter and prescription) are processed in the body, which can result in too low or too high levels of the medication.</li></ul><h2>What is known about the effects of alcohol use in teens? </h2><h3>Short-term effects and risks</h3><p>There are several effects that alcohol has on the brain and on decision-making.</p><h4>Effects on the brain</h4><p>Alcohol slows down how the brain works and can cause a decrease in your level of alertness. With large amounts, there can also be a slowing of breathing, and in some cases, coma and death. </p><p>If someone ‘passes out’ because of drinking too much, they are often not able to protect their airway. This means that if they vomit, they can ‘aspirate’ (breathe) this into their lungs, which can cause severe breathing difficulties. </p><p>Drinking a lot of alcohol can also result in what is known as ‘blackouts’. A blackout is short-term memory loss for events that happen while someone is intoxicated.</p><p>In people with epilepsy or a history of seizures, alcohol can increase the likelihood of having a seizure.</p><h4>Impulsive behaviour and decision-making</h4><p>Alcohol use can impair decision making and lead to behaviours that a person might not choose to do if they were not under the influence of alcohol. This can include impulsive behaviour that can result in injury, self-harm or suicidal thoughts or attempts. For example, driving a motor vehicle (including a boat) while under the influence of alcohol can result in injury and/or death. Alcohol can also affect decisions about engaging in sexual activity, as well as how people interpret another person’s consent or lack of consent to engage in a sexual encounter. </p><h4>Interactions between alcohol and other substances</h4><p>Alcohol interacts with other drugs. This includes:</p><ul><li>other substances that someone might be using, such as cannabis</li><li>prescribed medications and over-the-counter medication</li></ul><p>Depending on the type of substance, alcohol can increase or decrease the effects of the other drug or medication. When you pick up a prescription, check the bottle to see if there is an alert about using alcohol with the medication, or ask the pharmacist about any potential effects. You can also read about potential interactions between alcohol and other substances, including medications, at <a href="http://www.drugcocktails.ca/">DrugCocktails.ca</a>. </p><h3>Longer-term effects and risks</h3><p>If someone is using alcohol daily, they are likely to develop a dependence. A person who is dependent on alcohol will need to drink more to get the same effect and can experience withdrawal if they stop using alcohol suddenly. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms include tremors and seizures. If you or someone you know is drinking daily, it is important to seek medical help in cutting back or stopping. </p><p>Using alcohol regularly can result in:</p><ul><li>difficulties with learning and memory</li><li>worsening mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety)</li><li>other problems (e.g., doing poorly in school, family problems)</li></ul><p>Some people can also develop liver problems because of alcohol use alone, or in combination with other health conditions.</p><h2>Using alcohol while driving</h2><p>Driving while intoxicated with alcohol is against the law in Canada. Alcohol reduces alertness and co-ordination. People who drive after using alcohol can’t react as quickly when they need to. Vision can be blurred or doubled, and depth perception can be affected, making it difficult to know how close or far away other cars, objects or pedestrians are. </p><h2>At SickKids</h2><p>The Substance Use Program provides both outpatient and day treatment services: <a href="https://www.sickkids.ca/en/care-services/clinics/substance-abuse-outreach-program/">https://www.sickkids.ca/en/care-services/clinics/substance-abuse-outreach-program/</a>.</p><p><a href="https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2019-04/CCSA-Youth-Alcohol-Intoxication-Infographic-2018-en_0.pdf">Youth alcohol intoxication infographic</a> — Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction</p><p><a href="http://www.drugcocktails.ca/">DrugCocktails.ca</a></p><p>Health Canada. (2018). <em>Summary of results for the Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey 2016–17</em>. Retrieved from: <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canadian-student-tobacco-alcohol-drugs-survey/2016-2017-summary.html">https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canadian-student-tobacco-alcohol-drugs-survey/2016-2017-summary.html</a></p><p>Canadian Centre on Substance Use. (2014). <em>Youth and Alcohol</em>. Retrieved from: <a href="https://www.ccsa.ca/youth-and-alcohol-lrdg-summary">https://www.ccsa.ca/youth-and-alcohol-lrdg-summary</a></p><p>CAMH. (n.d.). <em>Alcohol and other drugs and driving</em>. Retrieved from: <a href="https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/guides-and-publications/alcohol-and-other-drugs-and-driving">https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/guides-and-publications/alcohol-and-other-drugs-and-driving</a></p>https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Teens%20Alcohol%20Page_iStock-187236772.jpgTeens
LymphomaLymphomaLymphomaLEnglishOncologyPre-teen (9-12 years);Teen (13-15 years);Late Teen (16-18 years)Body;Lymph nodesLymphatic systemConditions and diseasesPre-teen (9-12 years) Teen (13-15 years) Late Teen (16-18 years)NAhttps://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Lymphoma_teens.png2019-09-03T04:00:00Z7.2000000000000067.3000000000000820.000000000000Flat ContentHealth A-Z<p>Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. Learn about the lymphatic system, different types of lymphoma, diagnosis and treatment.</p><h2>Your immune system</h2><p>To better understand lymphoma, you need to first know a bit more about your lymph nodes and the lymphatic system, its role in the immune system, and how lymphocytes work.</p><p>Your immune system protects your body from diseases and infections. It is made up of special cells, organs and a circulatory (say: sir-koo-LATE-or-ee) system that is separate from your blood vessels. This system is called the lymphatic system. </p><h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>Lymphoma is a disease of the lymph nodes.</li><li>Lymphoma can be divided into two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.</li><li>Lymphoma is diagnosed through a physical exam, a biopsy of the lymph node and scans.</li><li>The main types of treatment for lymphoma are chemotherapy and radiation.</li></ul> <h2>The lymphatic system</h2><p>The lymphatic system is one of the most important parts of your immune system. It is made of many thin tubes called lymphatic vessels that send liquid called lymph around your body. Lymph contains a type of cell called a lymphocyte. </p><p>All around your body are thousands of small glands called lymph nodes or lymph glands. Lymph nodes look like little beans. Lymph runs through the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes filter the lymph and clean out any bacteria, viruses or other things that are bad for your body. This is how your lymph nodes help to keep your body healthy. Lymph also flows through some other organs including your spleen, tonsils, bone marrow and a gland in your chest called the thymus.</p><h2>What are lymphocytes​?</h2><p>Lymphocytes (say: lim-fo-sites) are white blood cells that help the body fight infection and disease. They are made in the bone marrow, which is inside the big bones in your body. They circulate in the blood and in the lymphatic system. There are a lot of lymphocytes in your lymph nodes. Lymphocytes are like the soldiers in your immune system’s army. They recognize and destroy cells that are not good for you. </p><p>There are two types of lymphocytes: </p><ul><li>B-lymphocytes (B-cells)</li><li>T-lymphocytes (T-cells)</li></ul><p>Your lymphatic system has three important jobs in your body:</p><ul><li>fighting infections</li><li>filtering the fluid in your body to remove bad cells</li><li>collecting fluid that leaks out of your blood vessels and returning it to your blood</li></ul><h2>What is lymphoma?</h2><p>Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. Lymphoma occurs when there is a mutation, or change, in the DNA of a lymphocyte. This mutation can happen in either a B-lymphocyte or a T-lymphocyte, but it is more common in B-lymphocytes. The mutation causes the lymphocyte to divide out of control and not die when it is supposed to. The mutation also keeps the cell from doing its job of fighting infection in the body.</p><p>Eventually, as the mutated lymphocytes continue to divide and reproduce, they form a mass of cancerous cells within the lymph node. This mass is called a lymphoma.</p><p>There are two types of lymphoma:</p><ul><li> <a href="/Article?contentid=3424&language=English">Hodgkin lymphoma</a> </li><li> <a href="/Article?contentid=3425&language=English">Non-Hodgkin lymphoma</a></li></ul><p>You will learn more about these types of lymphoma in the next sections.</p><p>Your immune system can still function even if you have lymphoma.</p><div class="asset-animation"> <iframe src="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Style%20Library/AKH/animations/Lymphoma/TTC_Cancer_lymphoma_AMD__CANVAS_EN.html"></iframe>  </div><h2>How is lymphoma diagnosed?</h2><p>Doctors discover what type of lymphoma you have and the stage through a process called <a href="/Article?contentid=3436&language=English">diagnosis</a>. </p><p>Usually, diagnosis of lymphoma starts with a doctor examining you and asking you a lot of questions about how you are feeling and why you came to the clinic or the hospital. They will feel your lymph nodes to see if any are bigger than normal. The doctor will do a <a href="/Article?contentid=3440&language=English">biopsy</a> to get a sample of a lymph node. The doctor will look at this sample under a microscope to check for cancerous cells. The doctor will also order some <a href="/Article?contentid=3442&language=English">scans</a> to get a picture of the inside of your body. </p><h2>How is lymphoma treated?</h2><p>Doctors use information gathered during diagnosis to diagnose what type of lymphoma you have, its stage (whether it has spread) and to plan your treatment. The main types of treatment for lymphoma are <a href="/Article?contentid=3458&language=English">chemotherapy</a> and <a href="/Article?contentid=3471&language=English">radiation</a>. The goal of treatment is to kill all the cancerous lymphocytes in your body. You will learn more about different types of treatment in the sections on cancer medications and cancer treatments and support therapies.</p><h2>Prognosis for lymphoma</h2><p>Your doctor will probably tell you and your family the prognosis for your lymphoma. A prognosis means the likelihood or chance that treatment will work and that you will recover from cancer. Each type of lymphoma has a different prognosis depending on:</p><ul><li>the type of lymphoma</li><li>the stage of the lymphoma</li></ul><p>Your best source of information about your lymphoma is your health-care team. If you have any questions or if there is anything you do not understand about your lymphoma, ask your doctors and nurses. If you are nervous about asking the doctors or nurses yourself, you can talk to your parent/caregiver. They may be able to answer your questions or can help you ask questions. </p>Teens
The cancer care team: Occupational therapistThe cancer care team: Occupational therapistThe cancer care team: Occupational therapistTEnglishOncologyPre-teen (9-12 years);Teen (13-15 years);Late Teen (16-18 years)NANAHealth care professionalsPre-teen (9-12 years) Teen (13-15 years) Late Teen (16-18 years)NA2019-09-03T04:00:00Z12.000000000000040.8000000000000425.000000000000Flat ContentHealth A-Z<p>An occupational therapist can help you with everyday tasks at home and at school. Find out why occupational therapy is imporant and why you might need it as part of your recovery.</p><h2>What is an occupational therapist?</h2><p>Occupational therapy is treatment to help you do everyday tasks, whether at home, at school or at work. An occupational therapist assesses, educates and offers recommendations for people with cancer and other medical conditions. They can help you to improve your ability to perform everyday tasks and help you find ways to continue to do the things you enjoy. </p><p>Occupational therapists are trained to evaluate performance and help you function as well as possible in everyday tasks by considering your motor skills (such as your co-ordination), sensory functions, and thinking skills. For example, they may recommend assistive devices—special aids that make it easier to do certain tasks like walking or hearing. </p><p>An occupational therapist may be part of the health-care team that you see frequently. Often, occupational therapists work together with physiotherapists and speech therapists as a rehabilitation team. </p><h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>Occupational therapists help you improve your ability to perform everyday tasks such as eating, climbing stairs and self-care activities.</li><li>Occupational therapists will assess your abilities and make recommendations to help you with your daily tasks, including activity recommendations and assistive devices.</li></ul><h2>How can an occupational therapist help me?</h2><p>Sometimes, cancer or treatment can make it hard for you to do the simple things you used to do before, such as getting dressed, climbing stairs, or eating. An occupational therapist can help you adapt to changes in your abilities and be more independent.</p><p>The occupational therapist will discuss your goals so that they can provide therapy focused on the things that matter to you. The therapy may include working on challenges related to your body, activities, or the environment. </p><p>Some of the different things an occupational therapist can help with include:</p><ul><li>self-care activities such as dressing and grooming</li><li>school or work skills such as writing, typing, organizing, or memorizing things</li><li>leisure activities such as reading or playing computer games</li><li>home safety evaluations, to see if any changes are needed in your home to make it safer for you </li><li>assistive devices such as walking aids or special tools to open jars or cans</li><li>equipment such as wheelchairs </li><li>splinting (supporting or bracing) your joints to help you maintain movement</li><li>energy conservation (saving your energy) to make sure you don’t tire yourself out too easily </li><li>swallowing difficulties and feeding skills (with the help of a <a href="/Article?contentid=3497&language=English">speech-language pathologist</a>)</li></ul><p>Occupational therapists may work with you in the hospital, at a rehabilitation centre, at home or at school. If you are working with an occupational therapist in the hospital they will help to organize follow-up therapy if you need it. The occupational therapist will assess your abilities and needs regularly while you are working with them.</p><p>If you feel that an occupational therapist can help you, you or your family can ask your health-care team to recommend one.<br></p>https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Occupational_therapist_TTC_Cancer.jpg ​An occupational therapist can help you with everyday tasks. Find out why you might need occupational therapy as part of your recovery. Teens
Dating with celiac diseaseDating with celiac diseaseDating with celiac diseaseDEnglishGastrointestinalTeen (13-18 years)NADigestive systemHealthy living and preventionTeen (13-18 years)NA2023-09-26T04:00:00Z8.8000000000000064.1000000000000993.000000000000Flat ContentHealth A-Z<p>You may have a range of emotions and concerns about dating with celiac disease. Learn how assessing your comfort level, clearly communicating your needs and planning ahead can help make the experience more enjoyable.</p><p>Dating is a way to learn more about someone you like and to let them know about you. For example, you might share details about having celiac disease to help your date know you better and understand your need for gluten-free foods and activities. You might also choose not to share your celiac disease diagnosis. Here are some tips for navigating dating as someone living with celiac disease.</p><h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>Navigating the dating scene can be difficult when you have celiac disease. </li><li>Before you start dating, think about your comfort level with sharing your diagnosis and explaining your need to follow a strict gluten-free diet.</li><li>Clear communication and planning can help make a date more enjoyable. </li><li>Remember that celiac disease does not define you! Your value does not change because of your diagnosis.</li></ul><h2>Assess your comfort level</h2><p>Before you start dating, you may want to think about when to tell your date about your diagnosis of celiac disease and the need to follow a strict gluten-free diet. </p><p>If you feel comfortable sharing with your date that you have celiac disease, be open about what this means for you and explain your gluten-free diet. If you want to plan a date that involves going out to eat, you may also want to suggest places that you are comfortable navigating or have been to before and know can safely provide gluten-free meals. </p><p>If you aren’t comfortable sharing right away that you have celiac disease, you may want to plan a date that doesn’t revolve around food. </p><p>Depending on who you date or how long you have been dating, your comfort level may change. This is normal! </p><h2>Communication is key</h2><p>Communication is an important part of building a healthy relationship. Once when you are ready and comfortable, you may decide that you want to tell your date about your diagnosis of celiac disease and need for a gluten-free diet. Sometimes, it can be hard to know exactly what to say. Here are some examples of how to communicate your diagnosis for the first time: </p><ul><li>“I would love to hang out again and get to know you more, but before we do that, I think it’s important for you to know that I have celiac disease, which means I need to follow a strict gluten-free diet. There are a few restaurant spots that I know of that have gluten-free options. Would you be interested in going to any of these restaurants for our next date? [List two to three restaurants you know can safely accommodate your gluten-free diet.]”</li><li>“Just so you know, I have been diagnosed with celiac disease, which means I have to follow a gluten-free diet. I am still learning how to follow this diet and build up my comfort level with dining out. Would it be okay if we plan our next date at [suggest a non-food-related activity or spot] or hang out at my house?” </li><li>“I have to eat gluten-free for celiac disease, so I’ll have to talk to the server about my meal to make sure it’s gluten-free and prepared safely.”</li></ul><p>There are other important things to tell your date about managing celiac disease. For example, exposure to gluten, even in the smallest amount (this might come from sharing foods, from surfaces or a kiss), can make you feel very sick. Encourage your date to wash their hands after eating and offer a new travel toothbrush for them to brush their teeth and rinse their mouth to minimize gluten exposure. </p><p>Non-food products like lip products and hand lotions can also contain gluten. Ask your date if they are wearing any of these products and suggest they look into the ingredients for gluten before seeing you next. If they are not sure, ask them to send you a picture of the ingredients for you both to review together. </p><h2>Plan ahead</h2><p>If you will be going out to eat, suggest restaurants that you know are safe for you or call ahead to make sure the restaurant you plan to go to can provide safe gluten-free options. </p><p>There are many date options that do not involve food. If you prefer not to go to a restaurant or you are not comfortable with having to navigate dining out with your date, consider these non-food related date activities:</p><ul><li>Try something athletic like bowling, mini golf or going to a batting cage. </li><li>Visit a museum or an art gallery. </li><li>Enjoy the outdoors with a bike ride, hike or a walk around the neighborhood. </li><li>Attend a class like a paint night or a yoga, pottery, spin or dance class. </li><li>Embrace Canadian winters by going ice skating, skiing or building a snowman or fort. </li><li>Organize a board game or trivia night with friends. </li><li>Take your puzzle and riddle skills to the next level by attempting an escape room. </li><li>Do something festive. In the fall or winter, you might carve pumpkins, watch holiday movies, go apple picking or make holiday cards or decorations.</li></ul><h2>Navigating your significant other's family and friends</h2><p>If you choose to pursue a relationship, you will likely be invited to family and/or friend gatherings. This may mean you will have to share your diagnosis and details about the strict gluten-free diet with others. You may want to have a conversation with your significant other about your expectations around support in these settings. Although there are things you can do to make sure you follow your gluten-free diet and feel safe, having a supportive partner in your corner can make things much easier. </p><p>Whether or not the date goes well, or you decide to pursue a relationship, remember that having celiac disease does not define you. There are many things that make you who you are beyond living with celiac disease.</p>https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Dating_with_celiac_disease-Teen.jpg ​Learn how assessing your comfort level, clearly communicating your needs and planning ahead can help make dating with celiac disease more enjoyable. Teens
What to know about cyberbullyingWhat to know about cyberbullyingWhat to know about cyberbullyingWEnglishAdolescent;DevelopmentalTeen (13-18 years)NANAHealthy living and preventionTeen (13-18 years)NA2022-05-16T04:00:00ZFlat ContentHealth A-Z<p>Cyberbullying is a type of bullying that uses the internet, texting and social media. Learn about what cyberbullying looks like and what you can do about it.</p><h2>What is cyberbullying?</h2><p>Cyberbullying is the use of the internet, texting, and social media to intimidate, spread rumours, put down or make fun of someone. Cyberbullying can include:</p><ul><li>Sending someone threatening messages</li><li>Posting or sharing personal information without permission</li><li>Taking a photo of someone or sharing photos of a person without their permission</li><li>Posting gossip or mean messages on social media</li><li>Hacking into someone’s email or social media and sending messages as that person</li><li>Creating a website or social media account to make fun of someone</li><li>Creating a fake social media account pretending to be someone else and making fun of them</li><li>Leaving people out of instant messaging or email contact lists on purpose</li></ul><p>Cyberbullying doesn’t stop at school; it can reach you 24 hours a day, at home, on the weekends, and on vacation. </p><p>Because it’s easy to create anonymous or fake accounts online, you may not even know who’s cyberbullying you. Those who cyberbully also can’t immediately see your reaction, so they might not feel bad about cyberbullying and continue to become more aggressive.</p><h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>Cyberbullying uses the internet, texting, and social media to bully others.</li><li>Cyberbullying can include sending threatening messages, sharing personal information or images without permission, and posting rumours or mean messages online.</li><li>Keep yourself safe online by not sharing passwords, don’t share your personal information or anyone else’s, and never send nude photos of yourself or anyone else.</li><li>Talk to an adult you trust and who can help you if you are being cyberbullied. If you have been threatened or a crime has been committed, call the police.</li></ul><h2>What can I do about cyberbullying?</h2><p>You may feel like you can’t do anything to stop cyberbullying if you or someone you know is being harassed, or if you know someone who is a cyberbully. But there are things you can do to keep yourself and others safe:</p><ul><li>Treat people online the way you would treat them in person. If you wouldn’t say something directly to someone’s face, don’t leave it as a comment on their social media or text it to them. Always think about whether the content is hurtful or damaging before sending an email, message or photo.</li><li>Don’t share passwords with anyone other than a trusted adult (e.g., your parents or a caregiver).</li><li>Don’t share your own personal information or anyone else’s online.</li><li>Never send nude photos of yourself or anyone else to anyone. If you or the person in the photos are under the age of 18, as you could be charged with distributing child pornography.</li><li>Talk to an adult you trust (parent, teacher, coach, guidance counsellor). They may be able to give you advice on how to deal with a cyberbully, or they may be able to step in to help protect you.</li><li>Stand up for yourself or someone else you see being cyberbullied without being aggressive and without cyberbullying back. Let the person know that what they’re doing is not OK and you won’t forward or respond to the messages.</li><li>If you or someone else is being cyberbullied, make a copy of the message before you delete it (e.g., take a screenshot). You can also report harassment or inappropriate messages on most social media sites and apps. Most social media sites, internet providers and cell phone service providers have policies against bullying and may be able to do something about it if you report the abuse.</li><li>Call the police if you have been threatened or if a crime has been committed. If someone has assaulted you or has threatened to hurt you, that’s a crime and you should call the police to intervene.</li></ul><p>Take care of your mental health. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health issues, talk to a trusted adult or health-care provider. You can also take a look at these mental health resources to find ways to help you cope: <a href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/mentalhealth">www.teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/mentalhealth</a></p><p>For more information on cyberbullying, visit <a href="https://www.prevnet.ca/cyber-bullying/teens">www.prevnet.ca/cyber-bullying/teens</a>.</p>https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Cyberbullying_teen.jpg Cyberbullying is a type of bullying that uses the internet, texting and social media. Learn what cyberbullying looks like and what to do about it. Teens