Health Challenges for Gen Z, Millennial Women

A recent report by the Population Reference Bureau reveals concerning trends in the health and well-being of millennial and Gen Z women, indicating a regression in progress made since the 1960s. Despite advancements in education and income, young women born after 1981 face elevated risks in areas such as suicide, maternal mortality, and violence compared to previous generations.

The study, examining women in their 20s and early 30s across generations, highlights an alarming rise in suicide rates among Gen Z females, reaching 5 per 100,000—surpassing the 1960s rate of 3 per 100,000 for baby boomers. Additionally, maternal mortality has spiked, with millennial women experiencing approximately 30 deaths per 100,000 compared to 19 deaths per 100,000 a decade ago.

While the report acknowledges the strides made by young women in education and employment, it underscores persistent barriers to health and safety. Factors contributing to these challenges include the negative impact of social media, lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, increased political divisions, and rising inflation. The report also points to restrictive reproductive health measures, including state abortion limitations, as contributing to the struggles faced by young women.

Diana Elliott, Vice President for U.S. Programs at the Population Reference Bureau, emphasizes that despite pursuing educational and career goals, structural obstacles hinder many young women from realizing their full potential. The findings underscore a complex scenario where progress in some areas coexists with setbacks in critical aspects of women’s health and safety.

Notably, the report highlights positive developments, such as an increase in women obtaining college degrees, with nearly 44% of millennial women achieving this milestone compared to 28% of Generation X women. Additionally, incarceration rates among women are on a declining trend for the first time in 50 years.

The report serves as a call to address the multifaceted challenges faced by young women, urging a comprehensive approach to ensure the well-being and safety of future generations.

_{Repurposed article originally published in ABC News}