The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has launched the ANIMA-AA Kit. The new toolkit helps health workers support children and teenagers affected by violence.

PAHO said the kit will strengthen frontline health services across the Americas, including the Caribbean. Violence remains a major public health issue in the region. Girls face some of the highest risks.

PAHO reported that one in five adolescents between the ages of 15 and 19 experiences physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner. Data from UNICEF also shows that one in six girls suffers sexual violence before turning 18.

Child marriage remains another concern. It affects one in five girls and increases the risk of violence and teenage pregnancy. PAHO said these problems can harm physical, mental, social and reproductive health.

PAHO developed the toolkit with support from the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID). The organization said many health workers are often the first people to meet survivors. However, they do not always have the tools or training needed to provide support.

The ANIMA-AA Kit gives clear and practical guidance for everyday use. It focuses on helping health workers respond with care and understanding. The toolkit places special attention on girls because they often face greater risks and more barriers when seeking help.

Britta Baer, advisor on violence and injury prevention at PAHO, said health services can play a key role in protecting children and teenagers. She said a caring response can help stop further harm and support recovery.

The ANIMA-AA model includes seven steps. These are listening carefully, showing support, identifying needs, improving safety, offering assistance, creating child-friendly spaces and supporting caregivers.

PAHO said health services identify only a small number of violence cases. The organization hopes the toolkit will help workers detect abuse earlier and respond more effectively. Young people and adolescents from across the region also helped shape the toolkit during its development.