Primary prevention and health promotion: A focus on adolescents. In the realm of global health research, adolescent sexual and reproductive health has emerged as an area of key concern, particularly in developing na- tions and regions such as sub-Saharan Africa where HIV and AIDS account for the second highest number of deaths. Globally, one-fourth of these cases represent people under the age of 25 years, with 63 per cent residing in sub- Saharan Africa (UNAIDS, 2004). Young women are three times as likely as young men to be infected. Adolescents in East and Southern Africa are also faced with a host of potential sexual and reproductive health problems in addition to HIV/AIDS, such as sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, contraception, sexual abuse and rape, female genital mutilation and circumcision, and maternal and child mortality. Young people under the age of 25 constitute an important group given that they comprise approximately half of the global population and are ul- timately the future adult citizenry. Indeed, the health of a nation’s young people and its vulnerability serve as a barometer for the health of wider so- ciety. In recognition that the sexual and reproductive health needs of ado- lescents differ markedly from those of adults, nations are now increasingly placing the issue firmly on their development agendas. Yet despite being at the center of the HIV epidemic in terms of transmission, vulnerability and impact, the vast majority of adolescents encounter significant barriers to maintaining their sexual and reproductive health, such as stigma and dis- crimination, lack of access to youth-friendly services, critical information, and programs which are designed to equip them with the skills and serv- ices they need for prevention, treatment and care. Moreover, the period of adolescence and the transition to adulthood varies widely from society to society and is marked in different ways and at different ages. Consequently, adolescents may face different challenges and have different opportunities which may impact their sexual and reproductive health.