Study Warns Younger Generations Face Earlier Health Decline

A study by researchers at Oxford University and University College London says younger generations are developing physical and mental illnesses at earlier ages, driven by rising obesity and mental health disorders. It found that overall health indicators have fallen sharply among generations born between 1946 and 2002, even as life expectancy continues to rise. The findings suggest broader consequences for the labour market and the economy, as more people may spend longer periods living with health problems. The study adds to growing concern about the strain early-onset illness could place on public services and productivity. A report by the UK Parliament’s Health and Social Care Committee said physical inactivity is linked to one in every six deaths in England and costs the economy about 7.4 billion sterling a year. It said inactivity remains a major public health and economic burden. The committee called on doctors to encourage patients to take regular physical activity and urged wider use of social prescribing schemes that include walking, swimming and yoga. It said such approaches could help improve health outcomes while reducing pressure on the system.