youth Mortality Rates surge Globally, Study Finds – A ‘Wake-Up Call’ for Health Systems
GENEVA - A new global health study reveals a concerning rise in deaths among young people, signaling an “emerging crisis” and demanding urgent action from governments and healthcare leaders worldwide. Teh Global Burden of Disease study, published today, highlights a shift in the leading causes of mortality for those aged 10-24, with increasing rates of non-communicable diseases alongside persistent threats from infectious illnesses and injuries.
The study’s findings represent a significant reversal of decades-long progress in reducing youth mortality, particularly in low-income regions.Researchers warn that international aid cuts are jeopardizing existing gains, potentially widening the gap in health outcomes. “The evidence presented…is a wake-up call, urging goverment and healthcare leaders to respond swiftly and strategically to the disturbing trends that are reshaping public health needs,” said Dr. Christopher murray.
The report underscores a “triple burden” of health challenges - the ongoing cost of living crisis, the rise of non-communicable diseases, and the continued threat of communicable disease outbreaks, all compounded by climate change.While infectious diseases like malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis remain significant killers of young people due to weak health systems and vaccine gaps, the study points to a rapid increase in conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity among younger Africans.
Dr.Githinji Gitahi, chief executive of Amref Health Africa, emphasized the potential of Africa’s young population – 60% of the continent is under 25 – but stressed that “health is the most powerful investment in this.” He called for integrated care and “stronger health systems founded on real youth-centred public health investment,” noting a lack of regulation in food production and limited nutrition education in rapidly changing urban environments.
Emmanuela Gakidou, senior author and professor at IHME, cautioned that progress in low-income regions is at risk due to recent cuts in international aid, which these countries rely on for essential primary care, medicine, and vaccines.
The Global Burden of Disease study is partly funded by the Gates Foundation, which also provides funding to support the Guardian’s editorially independant global growth section.
