Work

Fostering the inclusion of teen fathers in adolescent health interventions: a call for structured and gender-inclusive programming

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Adolescent pregnancy remains a major global public health challenge, with significant consequences for health, education, and socioeconomic outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. While existing interventions have rightly prioritized adolescent mothers due to their biological and social vulnerabilities, this focus has inadvertently led to the systematic exclusion of teen fathers from adolescent health programming. Emerging evidence highlights that adolescent fathers play a critical role in maternal well-being, child development, and their own psychosocial outcomes. However, structural, cultural, and institutional barriers continue to limit their engagement. This commentary argues that adolescent parenthood is inherently relational and that excluding teen fathers undermines the effectiveness of current interventions. It calls for structured, gender-inclusive approaches that integrate teen fathers into adolescent health systems, promote shared responsibility, and strengthen outcomes for young families.

Source: Annals of Medicine and Surgery

DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000005241

Authors: Yves Gashugi, Uwizera Marthe

Institutions: University of Global Health Equity, University of Rwanda

Language: English

Topic: Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities, Gender equality

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,850