On Point | Podcast The new crisis in American kids' health
Jul 24, 2025
Christopher Forrest, a pediatrician and health researcher, joins Tim Sandoval, the Mayor of Pomona, to discuss the alarming decline in American children's health. They explore rising obesity rates, mental health crises, and increased mortality among youth. The conversation highlights the complexities behind these issues, including socioeconomic disparities and inadequate support systems. They emphasize the need for systemic changes and community-driven initiatives to foster a healthier environment for children across the nation.
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Silent Crisis in Child Health
- American children show alarming declines across health indicators including mortality, mental health, and chronic diseases.
- This represents a generalized health decline, described as a "quiet epidemic" affecting millions of children.
Higher U.S. Child Mortality
- U.S. children are 80% more likely to die than peers in similar high-income countries.
- Major infant mortality causes include prematurity and birth defects; older children face gun violence and motor vehicle accidents.
Rising Childhood Chronic Conditions
- One in three American children has a chronic condition, a sharp rise over decades.
- Conditions range from neurodevelopmental disorders to physical illnesses like inflammatory bowel disease.