A major new study published in JAMA Network has revealed a troubling decline in the health and well-being of American children over the past two decades. Analyzing national data from 2007 to 2023, researchers found alarming increases in mortality rates, chronic diseases, and mental health struggles. The findings show that U.S. kids are faring significantly worse than their peers in other wealthy nations, confirming a long-feared public health crisis.
The Sobering Statistics on Child Mortality
The study highlights a stark and deadly gap between the United States and 18 other developed countries. The U.S. infant mortality rate is 78% higher, while the death rate for children and teens aged 1 to 19 is a staggering 80% higher. This is not a small difference but a significant indicator of a systemic problem.
Dr. Christopher B. Forrest, a pediatrician and one of the study’s authors, stated clearly, “We are experiencing a crisis in child health—this is clear and really not debatable.” Key drivers behind these high mortality rates include premature births, sudden unexpected infant deaths, car crashes, and gun violence. The data on firearm deaths is particularly shocking, showing American children are 15 times more likely to die from a gun-related incident than kids in similar countries.
Chronic Illness is Becoming a Childhood Norm
Beyond mortality, the research shows a dramatic rise in long-term health conditions that affect a child’s quality of life. The prevalence of chronic illness is growing, impacting how children learn, play, and develop.
Between 2011 and 2023, the percentage of children with at least one chronic condition rose significantly.
- In pediatric health systems, the rate jumped from 39.9% to 45.7%.
- In the general population, it increased from 25.8% to 31%.
This means nearly one in two children in some health systems is dealing with an ongoing issue like obesity, asthma, or ADHD. Today, one in five American children is obese, a major public health concern with long-term consequences. Additionally, girls are experiencing puberty earlier, with 1 in 7 starting menstruation before the age of 12, which can lead to both medical and psychological difficulties.
How the U.S. Stacks up Against Peer Nations
The report provides a direct comparison that underscores how far the U.S. is falling behind other wealthy countries in protecting its youngest citizens. While nations like Sweden and Japan have seen continued improvements in child health outcomes, the U.S. has been on a downward trend since the 1970s.
The table below from the OECD data illustrates the disparity.
| Age Group | U.S. Mortality Rate vs. Peer Countries | Notable Cause |
| Infants (<1) | 78% higher | Prematurity, SUID |
| Children (1–19) | 80% higher | Firearms, Motor vehicle accidents |
| Firearm Deaths | 15x higher | Gun-related fatalities |
This is not just a healthcare issue but a reflection of broader social, economic, and political factors that are failing to create a safe and healthy environment for children to thrive.
A Complex Web of Stressors With No Easy Fix
Experts believe there is no single cause for this health crisis. Instead, it is a tangled mix of social, environmental, and economic pressures affecting families across the nation. Factors like poor nutrition from processed foods, increased screen time, social isolation, and even climate anxiety are thought to be contributing.
The problem is also rooted in a breakdown of fundamental needs: nutrition, sleep, safety, movement, and strong relationships. Many children are sleep-deprived, leading to anxiety and poor immunity, while others report more stress-related physical symptoms like headaches and stomachaches.
Dr. Forrest emphasized that solutions must start at the community and family level. He gave simple but powerful advice, urging parents to prioritize connection over a higher-paying job and to create nurturing home environments where children feel safe and heard. This crisis suggests that the very environments where children grow up are becoming harder to navigate successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the new study on U.S. child health find?
The study, published in JAMA Network, found that American children are experiencing worsening health, with higher mortality rates, more chronic illnesses, and increased mental health struggles compared to previous decades and other wealthy nations.
How do U.S. child mortality rates compare to other countries?
The U.S. has a 78% higher mortality rate for infants under one and an 80% higher rate for children aged 1 to 19 compared to 18 peer countries. Firearm deaths are 15 times higher among American kids.
What chronic conditions are on the rise in children?
Common chronic conditions increasing in U.S. children include obesity, asthma, diabetes, and ADHD. Nearly one in two children in some pediatric systems now has at least one chronic condition.
What are the main causes of this child health crisis?
Experts point to a combination of factors, including poor nutrition, lack of sleep, increased screen time, social isolation, and environmental stressors. There is no single cause, but rather a complex web of interconnected issues.
What can be done to address this problem?
While there are no quick fixes, experts suggest focusing on community and family support. This includes strengthening family connections, creating emotionally safe homes, and prioritizing children’s well-being over work and other pressures.
