Surgeon general advises parents on teens

WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- As "The Year of the Healthy Child" draws to a close, the U.S. surgeon general gave some final advice to parents on keeping teens healthy.

"Teach your teenager how to maintain a high level of overall health through nutrition, physical fitness and healthy behaviors," said Dr. Richard H. Carmona. "Make sure your teen gets eight hours of sleep a night -- a good night's sleep ensures maximum performance in academics and sports."

Carmona advised parents to make sure their teens use seatbelts every time they ride in a car, and require that all other passengers to wear seatbelts as well.

"Encourage your young driver to drive responsibly by following speed limits and avoiding distractions while driving such as talking on a cell phone or changing the radio dial while driving," he said.

Carmona -- who declared 2005 "The Year of the Healthy Child" last January -- advised parents to take their teens to the doctor and dentist at least once a year.