First EU Youth Report tackles health as a policy area relevant for young people

The report, requested by the Council of the European Union, is expected to be published every three years and responds to the need for evidence-based policy making. According to the Commission, the report gives an indication of where there is a lack of data and gives recommendations for future research

A summary of the key data for health reveals that there is already a clear mandate for action:

 around 2 million young people have mental health problems;
 17% of young people aged 15-24 are overweight;
 9% of young people aged 15-24 are underweight;
 24% of young people aged 15-24 smoke daily.

Indicators for other areas lend insight into social issues that might impact the health of young people in the long term:

 19 million children (aged 0-17) are at risk of poverty in the EU;
 20% of young people aged 18-24 are at risk of poverty;
 37% of all babies are born outside marriage.

Action to improve the health of young people is most welcome. Nevertheless, it is important to ensure that this work is consolidated within an approach to health that encompasses the whole life course, from before birth to dignified care in old age. The opportunities for, and threats to, better health are determined throughout life. Therefore a more holistic approach is needed in order to support the work being carried out on the health of young people.

For more information

European Youth Portal

DG SANCO Youth Health Initiative

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