Younger generations in the UK appear to be experiencing poorer health earlier in life than previous generations, according to a review of studies comparing national birth cohort datasets involving tens of thousands of people born since 1946.
The trend, described by researchers as a “generational health drift”, was most consistently observed for obesity and mental ill health. Evidence of worsening diabetes outcomes was also identified when comparing Generation X with Baby Boomers. Drawing on findings from more than 50 studies, the review suggests that more recently born generations may spend a greater proportion of their lives in poor health.
Researchers say improvements in healthcare, screening, or diagnostic practices cannot fully explain the findings. Generational differences were observed for obesity, which does not depend on diagnosis, and for diabetes when objective biomarkers were used. Mental health comparisons were also based on self-reported symptoms of depression and anxiety rather than formal diagnoses.
The research team from University College London, King’s College London, and University of Oxford examined changes in physical and mental health across generations born after the Second World War. Health outcomes were compared across cohorts at similar ages.
The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Population Studies, have important implications for future healthcare and social care needs. The authors note that worsening health trends have emerged despite declines in smoking, higher levels of educational attainment, and improved material conditions in early life.
Lead author Laura Gimeno said evidence suggests that more recent generations are experiencing an earlier onset of poor health, particularly obesity and mental ill health. She added that the findings indicate society is not reaching the biological limits of health improvement, but instead seeing the long-term effects of preventable social and environmental exposures.
The researchers warn that the “generational health drift” carries serious implications for policy, planning, and funding as increasing numbers of people live with long-term health conditions. By 2050, one-quarter of the British population is projected to be aged 65 or older, increasing pressures on health and social care systems as well as the wider economy.
Although life expectancy in the UK improved substantially during the twentieth century, gains in healthy life expectancy have slowed or stalled since the early 2010s. According to Professor George Ploubidis, recent declines in healthy life expectancy are likely being driven by worsening mental and physical health among more recent generations. The review included evidence from 51 studies published up to June 2024 covering conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer.
More information: Laura Gimeno et al, The generational health drift: A systematic review of evidence from the British birth cohort studies, Population Studies. DOI: 10.1080/00324728.2026.2652038
Journal information: Population Studies Provided by Taylor & Francis Group
