A recent study led by researchers at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) reveals a concerning decline in children’s health across the United States. The study highlights increased chronic illnesses, higher rates of physical and mental health conditions, and rising mortality rates among children compared to other countries. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), point to systemic issues requiring new approaches to support and prioritize children’s health.
“Recent scientific assessments suggest that the United States is facing a major crisis with poor and worsening health for children,” said senior study author Christopher B. Forrest, MD, PhD. Forrest is a Professor of Pediatrics at CHOP and Director of both the Applied Clinical Research Center and PEDSnet.
The research utilized data from national surveys, mortality statistics, and pediatric electronic health records to assess changes in children’s health from 2007 to 2023. Over 170 health indicators were examined, including chronic disorders, obesity, functional impairments, and symptoms.
The study found significant disparities in mortality rates between U.S. children and those in comparable high-income nations. From 2007 to 2022, infant death rates were significantly higher in the U.S., with prematurity and sudden unexpected infant death as major contributors. Among older children, firearm-related incidents and motor vehicle crashes were leading causes of disparity.
Additionally, the prevalence of chronic conditions among children aged 3-17 increased during this period. Obesity rates also rose along with issues like early onset menstruation, sleep troubles, activity limitations, depressive symptoms, and loneliness.
Forrest emphasized the need for a developmental ecosystem connecting human relationships, environments, and social systems to support children’s well-being. “If we can improve the ecosystems that surround them…we can lay the foundation for a healthier future for our nation’s youth,” he stated.
The study was supported by institutional funds managed by CHOP’s Applied Clinical Research Center.
