Health screenings are the explanation for the scrutiny of teenagers' health.

The J1 examination, a preventive health check-up designed for young people between the ages of 12 and 14 in Germany, serves as a crucial component of the country's healthcare system. This examination aims to assess the physical, mental, and social development of adolescents, providing an opportunity for early detection of potential health issues and tailored advice for adolescents and their families.

Participation in the J1 examination is voluntary. During the appointment, which usually lasts around half an hour, a pediatrician or general practitioner reviews the adolescent’s medical history, performs a physical examination, checks vision and hearing, assesses growth and development, and discusses lifestyle and behavioral issues such as nutrition, exercise, and risk behaviors. The examination may also include tests for diseases that can first manifest in adolescence, and a vaccination check, with the doctor advising on any missing vaccinations, particularly hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations before first sexual intercourse.

Young people attending the J1 examination are encouraged to bring their health insurance card, any existing medical records or vaccination booklets, and ideally come with questions or topics they want to discuss. Some practices may ask the young person to fill out a questionnaire beforehand, so it's best to bring that along as well. A urine sample is also part of the J1 examination.

Regarding confidentiality, the results of the J1 examination are confidential. The information gathered is protected by medical privacy laws, meaning that findings are shared only with the adolescent and, depending on consent and legal provisions, their parents. The youth's privacy is respected, and sensitive issues can be handled privately between doctor and patient.

The J1 examination promotes adolescent health and wellbeing by addressing issues early and providing confidential advice. It is an important part of the German healthcare system for young people’s development, yet less than half of families take advantage of the J1 examination compared to over 90% for U examinations.

If a serious illness is diagnosed during the J1 examination, the parents will be informed. The J1 examination is offered in children and youth health practices as well as general practitioners' practices across Germany. This preventive check-up helps identify potential health issues early, provides an opportunity for young people to have their health checked, and offers a safe and confidential environment for discussing a wide range of topics, including mental health problems, acne, sex, or drugs.