How the world is changing for today’s young people

Adolescence has always been a time of big changes and questions, but today’s young people are growing up in a world that looks very different from what their parents or grandparents knew. A major new global study, published by the Lancet Commission (report in The Lancet), reveals that more than a billion kids and teenagers aged 10 to 24 are now at risk of serious health problems by the year 2030. That is about half of all the young people on Earth!

The climate crisis is changing young lives

Imagine growing up knowing that every year is hotter than the last. According to the Lancet Commission, by 2100, about 1.8 billion adolescents will live in a world that is about 5°F (2.8°C) warmer than it used to be. This means more heat waves, stronger storms, and trouble growing enough food. Health risks like heatstroke or diseases spread by bugs can get much worse. Young people will have to face these problems for longer than older generations, yet they often do not get to help make the big decisions about the future. If you are curious how our ancestors’ choices about what they wore and how they lived influenced disease, check out this fun read from SlothMD, how woolly clothes helped a deadly disease spread.

Digital technology: helpful and risky

Kids and teens today are the first true “digital natives.” Nearly 8 in 10 people aged 15 to 24 have internet access worldwide. In wealthy countries, it is almost everyone. The internet gives young people great chances to learn, make friends, and stay connected. But it also brings risks. Misinformation, cyberbullying, and even just spending too much time on screens can harm mental and physical health. The experts warn that as artificial intelligence (AI) gets smarter, both the good and bad of digital life will get bigger too. It is important for parents, teachers, and young people to work together to stay safe online. For more on how health AI and digital tools are part of today’s world, see how health AI can make healthy living easier.

Rising obesity threatens future health

Obesity is becoming a crisis for young people everywhere. Since 1990, obesity rates have risen up to eight times in parts of Africa and Asia. The Lancet Commission expects that by 2030, around 464 million adolescents worldwide will be overweight or obese. Why is this happening? Sugary drinks like sodas and energy drinks are a major reason. More than half of young people now drink them at least once a day. Unhealthy foods are often cheaper and easier to get than healthy ones. Plus, more screen time and less outdoor play mean kids are not moving as much. Scientists are even finding new ways to spot ultra-processed foods in your body, as explained in this SlothMD article.

Mental health at a tipping point

Perhaps the most worrying finding is about mental health. The report predicts that in 2030, young people will lose a combined 42 million years of healthy life to mental disorders or suicide—more than ever before. Mental health is already the biggest cause of lost health for adolescents in all countries. Stress from climate change, digital life, and especially the COVID-19 pandemic has made things even harder. The Commission suggests that communities need to offer better mental health care for teens, help them manage stress, and give them safe spaces to talk about their feelings. If you are looking for ways to boost your own mental health, science has some simple tips: get enough sleep, talk to friends, and spend time outside.

What it means for patients and the future

All these problems—climate change, digital risks, obesity, and mental health—are connected. For example, more screen time can lead to less exercise and more loneliness. The Lancet report highlights that not enough money or attention is spent on helping young people stay healthy. Experts urge governments and communities to act now, so today’s kids have a better future. The good news: many young people are hopeful and ready to make a difference. They want to help solve these challenges and build a healthier world. Understanding these issues and working together is the first big step toward change. Platforms like SlothMD and new health AI tools can also help families stay informed and make smart choices about health in our fast-changing world.