Only 14% healthy: the alarming truth from scientists about the future of the younger generation
Today’s generation of children faces dangers that are not always visible at first glance. Despite the active dissemination of information about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and moderate use of gadgets, the reality is that most children do not pay attention to these recommendations. The problem is taking on a global scale and affects not only the physical, but also the mental health of children around the world. Ukraine was no exception, where problems with physical activity, sleep and dependence on screens are just as relevant as in other countries. However, global studies, such as the latest study led by the University of Wollongong, are providing a deeper understanding of the scale of the problem and ways to overcome it.
Global trends in children’s health
A recent large-scale study of 7,017 children from 33 countries showed alarming results: only 14% of children between the ages of three and four met the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for physical activity, sleep and screen time. This study has become an alarming signal that raises the question of threats to the future generation. Children this age are recommended to be physically active for at least 180 minutes a day, limit screen time to one hour, and sleep 10-13 hours a day. However, the results show that most children do not follow these norms.
Failure to follow such basic recommendations can lead to serious consequences for children’s health. Physical activity at an early age is crucial for building the foundations of a healthy life, while lack of sleep and excessive use of gadgets negatively affect mental and emotional health. Unfortunately, many children in the world ignore these simple rules, which can lead to serious problems in the future.
The impact of gadgets and a sedentary lifestyle
One of the main factors affecting modern childhood is technology. Smartphones, tablets and computers have become an integral part of children’s lives, displacing time for active games and physical activity. Screen time is increasing, while time for active entertainment and movement is decreasing. Scientists warn that this imbalance can have catastrophic consequences for the health of the younger generation.
Dr. Kar Hau Chong, one of the lead authors of the study, emphasizes that physical activity at an early age is critical for normal development. A sedentary lifestyle combined with a long stay in front of screens can lead to a decrease in children’s physical and mental activity, as well as the appearance of emotional disorders. Problems such as obesity, sleep disturbances, reduced attention span are just some of the consequences that children may face in the future.
Regional differences
Interestingly, the study showed a difference between countries with different income levels. Children from low-income countries are more likely to meet WHO recommendations for physical activity (16.6%) compared to children from richer countries (14.4%). The highest rates of compliance with the recommendations are recorded in African countries (23.9%), while in the countries of North and South America this rate is only 7.7%. These results indicate that economic level affects children’s lifestyles, where in low-income countries children are more mobile due to lack of access to digital technologies and gadgets.
For Ukraine, this contrast is also relevant, since access to technology in large cities is much higher than in rural areas. While urban children may spend a significant amount of time on gadgets, children in rural areas have more opportunities for physical activity, even through daily activities and outdoor play. However, increasing access to the Internet and smartphones in all regions is gradually reducing this difference.
The importance of creating a healthy environment
Dr. Simona Tomaz from the University of Stirling, who also participated in the study, emphasizes the need to create environments that promote physical activity and healthy sleep for children regardless of geography. This includes the need to reduce screen time and increase time for active leisure. It is important that this environment is formed not only at the family level, but also at the level of schools, kindergartens and local communities.
In Ukraine, there is a need for active steps on the part of educational institutions and public organizations to promote children’s physical activity. School breaks, sports, public spaces for active play can all help children spend more time in motion. Parents should also be involved in this process, limiting the use of gadgets and encouraging active outdoor play.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
The study also shows that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on children’s physical activity. Due to quarantine measures and remote learning, many children spent more time in front of screens than usual, which exacerbated the problem of insufficient activity. This is a global problem faced not only by Ukraine, but also by the whole world. However, in Ukraine, the situation can be even more difficult due to insufficiently developed infrastructure for sports events and active recreation, which further limits the opportunities for children’s physical activity.
The need for immediate action
The authors of the study are unanimous in their opinion: if urgent measures are not taken, these trends will have long-term consequences for the health of children around the world. Dr. Chong emphasizes the importance of political and public initiatives to support physical activity and limit screen time. It is imperative that parents, teachers, and policymakers work together to create conditions that promote healthy child development.
In Ukraine, these issues also require attention at the state level. Politicians should develop programs aimed at encouraging children to lead an active lifestyle, as well as create infrastructure for sports activities. Inaction could result in only 14% of children growing up healthy, placing a burden on the health care system in the future.
The problem of children’s physical activity, excessive use of gadgets and lack of sleep is one of the most pressing challenges for modern society. In order for the younger generation to grow up healthy, it is necessary to take active measures today. Parents should control their children’s screen time, and educational institutions should create conditions for physical activity. Only joint efforts will help to change this alarming trend and ensure a healthy future for Ukrainian children and the whole world.
