Higher mortality rate for children in U.S. compared to similar countries
A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals a significant decline in American children's health over recent decades.
Between 2007 and 2022, U.S. children aged 1 to 19 were 1.8 times more likely to die than their peers in other high-income countries, with gun violence and traffic accidents contributing heavily. U.S. children were 15 times more likely to die by firearms, the study found. Chronic health issues have also surged, as nearly half of U.S. children are treated for chronic conditions, a dramatic increase from the 1990s. These include rising rates of mental health disorders, obesity, developmental delays and early puberty.
The researchers analyzed millions of health records from five nationally representative surveys and electronic health records from 10 pediatric health systems. They found that a child in 2023 was 15% to 20% more likely to have a chronic condition than a child in 2011.
Infant mortality also remains high, with babies in the U.S. 1.78 times more likely to die than in other high-income countries. Access to maternal care is worsening, with maternity deserts affecting 35% of U.S. counties, according to the study. Experts warned that without systemic change, children’s health will continue to decline.
Read more: JAMA
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