Health Unfairness: A Look at Denmark's Teen Health Over 30 Years

Let's take a ride through three decades of Denmark's teen health scene. Researchers have been keeping a keen eye on the health of young Danes, tracking fifteen different health factors. These include weight issues (both overweight and underweight), common pains like headaches and backaches, emotional struggles, sleep problems, feelings of loneliness, satisfaction with life, how teens rate their own health, habits like smoking and drinking, physical activity, veggie intake, and dental care. Over these years, one thing stood out: the gap between rich and poor teens stayed pretty much the same. Wealthier teens tended to have better health overall, while those from less well-off families struggled more. This was true for issues like emotional troubles, lack of physical activity, and not eating enough greens. It's a bit like watching a race where some runners never get a fair start. The playing field hasn't been leveled, and that's something worth thinking about. Health isn't just about individual choices; it's also about the environment and resources available to a kid.