What health issues are Gen Z facing according to The King's Fund?

Gen Z is experiencing rising obesity, a significant increase in probable mental health disorders, and higher rates of disability, alongside challenges accessing support services.

How has obesity affected 16 to 24 year olds in the UK?

Obesity rates among 16 to 24 year olds have risen steadily, from 31% in 2002 to 37% in 2022, indicating a worsening trend.

Why is Gen Z at risk of becoming a 'left-behind generation'?

They face a 'left-behind' risk due to increasing rates of obesity and mental health disorders, coupled with struggles accessing essential support services.

Home / Health / Gen Z Health Crisis: Experts Warn of 'Left-Behind Generation'

Gen Z Health Crisis: Experts Warn of 'Left-Behind Generation'

8 Dec

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Summary

Obesity rates in 16-24 year olds rose from 31% in 2002 to 37% in 2022.
Mental health issues have more than doubled among 17-19 year olds since 2017.
A quarter of 16-24 year olds live in relative poverty, impacting health.

Gen Z Health Crisis: Experts Warn of 'Left-Behind Generation'

Generation Z is at risk of becoming a 'left-behind generation' regarding their health, according to expert analysis. While some health behaviors have improved, concerning trends like rising obesity rates among 16 to 24-year-olds, which increased from 31% in 2002 to 37% in 2022, are evident. This demographic faces significant challenges in accessing timely support for mental health conditions and disabilities, as services have not kept pace with escalating demand.

The mental health landscape for young people has significantly deteriorated, with the proportion of 17 to 19-year-olds experiencing probable mental health disorders more than doubling from 10% in 2017 to 23% in 2023. Similarly, disability rates among 15 to 24-year-olds more than doubled between 2011 and 2021. Compounding these issues, this age group also exhibits the highest rates of adults living in relative poverty, a critical factor linked to poorer health outcomes.