A City in Crisis: Rise of Chronic Illnesses in Youth

In recent years, we have witnessed an increase in chronic diseases among high school students. This alarming development is reshaping the city's health landscape, posing significant challenges for families, as well as individuals. Chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension are becoming more common among Memphis high school students. Recent research indicates that students that these chronic illnesses, negatively affect both their academic performance and quality of life.

Obesity: Memphis has some of the highest rates of childhood obesity in the nation. Numerous additional chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular issues, are frequently brought on by this condition. This problem is made worse by the city's food deserts and restricted access to reasonably priced, nutritional food options.

Diabetes: Teenagers are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes due to poor eating habits and sedentary lives. This trend can be attributed in large part to high sugar consumption and inactivity.

Hypertension: Due to poor nutritional access amongst teenagers, along with a lack of exercise and unhealthy weight, high blood pressure levels among students in Memphis have widely been seen. 

Many common factor play a role in causing these chronic diseases. Deprivation of education, socioeconomic barriers, and an unhealthy lifestyle. By addressing such issues, Memphis' youth can have a better future. By working together, we can guarantee that every student has the chance to live a healthy and fulfilling life.