Our Young Are Ageing Faster

Modern living may not be all it is cracked up to be. Dutch scientists have recently conducted a study (published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology) which found that the physical condition of today’s 30 year-olds is 15 years “older” than their parents and grandparents when they were at the same age.

Conditions such as obesity, hypertension and diabetes are considerably more prevalent in younger people than they used to be. The younger generation is found to have poorer metabolic health, including the alarming statistics that a 30 year old today is 20% more likely to be overweight compared to their parents, and an average 20 year old in 2015 is twice as likely to be obese compared to someone of the same age just ten years ago.

Similar were the findings for men and women with regard to hypertension and diabetes.

These statistics are alarming. If the slide into (preventable) ill health starts early, quality of life is likely to decrease more rapidly. Obesity, hypertension and diabetes can also contribute to depression and other health issues.

Many of these conditions are preventable, particularly in younger people. It is critical to teach young people about the importance of healthy food choices, exercise and just how valuable good health is.

This is a topic which needs urgent attention. How have you taught your children and grandchildren t0 care for themselves? It is not enough to stay silent. If you have a younger family member whose health you are concerned about, start by talking to your GP. Seek advice on the best way to address it with them, and model healthy behaviour.