A new study warns that the UK is experiencing a 'generational health drift', with younger people suffering from poor health earlier than previous generations. Researchers from University College London (UCL), King's College London, and the University of Oxford analysed data from over 88,500 individuals born between 1946 and 2002. They found that for several health outcomes—particularly obesity, mental ill health, and diabetes—the prevalence of poor health was higher in more recent generations.
Key Findings
The study, published in the journal Population Studies, examined changes in physical and mental health across generations. It revealed little improvement in health for those born since 1946, a trend that has 'considerable implications' for the workforce and the economy. With long-term declines in mortality and fertility, by 2050 one quarter of the British population will be aged 65 and over, increasing demand for health and social care.
Obesity and Mental Health
The most stark differences were seen in obesity and mental health. The team warned that the higher prevalence of ill health in more recent generations suggests that more years may be spent living in poor health compared with previous generations. They concluded that society is not reaching biological limits but rather seeing consequences of preventable social and environmental exposures.
Health Secretary James Murray has been urged to address this 'generational health drift' to ensure that more recently born cohorts not only live longer but do so in good health. The study calls for policy, planning, and funding allocations to support a greater number of people living with chronic conditions.
