08 May Half of Aussie Teens Face Chronic Health Challenges: What Every Parent Should Know
Research uncovers overlap with ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, mental health, screen time, smoking and alcohol
The Hidden Health Struggles Affecting Our Teens
Nearly one in two Australian teenagers is living with a chronic illness or developmental condition like ADHD, autism, asthma, or food allergies, according to new research published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health. For parents and caregivers, this finding is a stark reminder of the growing health challenges today’s teens are quietly facing.
How Lifestyle Habits May Be Making Things Worse
In a survey of over 5,000 adolescents, researchers uncovered that 45.6% of teens are dealing with at least one chronic or developmental condition. The most common issues reported were hay fever (23%), asthma (15%), and ADHD (9%). The study also found a strong connection between these conditions and certain lifestyle factors—namely, high consumption of ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, alcohol use, excessive screen time, and poor mental health.
“These health conditions can seriously impact a young person’s ability to engage in school, sports, and social life,” said lead researcher Dr Bridie Osman from the University of Sydney. “Some can even weaken the immune system and lead to more serious health problems later in life.”
While girls were more likely to report chronic conditions, boys with mental health challenges were at higher risk of also having physical health issues. This shows that both boys and girls face serious but different vulnerabilities.
The study suggests a “whole-of-lifestyle” approach is needed to prevent and manage these conditions.
What Parents and Caregivers Can Do Right Now
- Prioritise balanced meals: Aim for whole, unprocessed foods and limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Encourage regular physical activity: Even 30 minutes of walking, cycling, or sport daily can make a difference.
- Create healthy tech habits: Set screen time boundaries and encourage offline activities.
- Support emotional wellbeing: Keep open conversations about feelings and check in regularly.
- Model healthy habits: Teens are more likely to follow positive behaviours when they see them at home.
As Terry Slevin from the Public Health Association of Australia warns, this is a wake-up call. It’s never too early—or too late—to build habits that support lifelong health.
Source: Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health / Public Health Association of Australia, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, involved a survey of over 5,000 Australian adolescents.
