Adolescence and paediatrics in Europe.

Adolescence is an important period of growth and development. It is often claimed that adolescent care and assistance should be assigned to paediatricians who have followed children during their growth, are prepared to deal with growth and puberty problems, and are used to discussing with parents problems related to school, sports and habits. There is serious doubt as to the extent to which this actually occurs. An inquiry in various European countries demonstrates that there are wide differences in adolescent care and guidelines. Useful viewpoints for planning have emerged from the inquiry.