Study Finds 25 Million Young People in the US Living with Chronic Conditions
New Delhi: The prevalence of chronic conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, asthma, prediabetes, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety has reached unprecedented levels in the United States, according to a recent study. Over the past two decades, the proportion of young individuals affected by these conditions has risen to 30 percent.
The study, published in Academic Pediatrics, reveals that nearly one in three young Americans—an estimated 25 million people aged 5 to 25—are now living with chronic conditions that originated in childhood. These health issues are significantly impacting their daily lives, limiting their opportunities and overall well-being.
Lead researcher Lauren Wisk, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of California-Los Angeles, highlighted the concerning rise in these conditions. “The prevalence of childhood chronic conditions is now higher than previous estimates suggested,” she stated.
The research, based on an analysis of data from approximately 236,500 participants, shows a notable increase in chronic illnesses across different age groups. Among children aged 5 to 17, the prevalence climbed from about 23 percent in 1999–2000 to over 30 percent by 2017–2018. This translates to an estimated 130,000 additional children developing chronic conditions each year.
Similarly, in young adults aged 18 to 25, the prevalence surged from 18.5 percent to 29 percent over the same period, equating to approximately 80,000 new cases annually.
The study also found that youth facing socioeconomic challenges—such as lower income, limited education, reliance on public insurance, or unemployment—are more likely to be affected by chronic illnesses than those with economic advantages.
Wisk emphasized that nearly all these conditions are manageable with proper medical care. She urged for increased investments in healthcare access to ensure affected young people receive consistent, high-quality treatment.
“Supporting these individuals in accessing healthcare throughout their lives is essential to safeguarding their health and future,” Wisk stressed.
Nidhi Srivastava is a dietician. She holds a post-graduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from MRIIRS. With a profound passion for utilizing nutrition and lifestyle modifications to manage diseases, she is dedicated to advancing the field through rigorous research and fact-checking. Her expertise lies in evidence-based practice, ensuring the highest standards of dietary health and wellness.