Childhood emerging adults disease is a term used to refer to diseases that tend to occur during adolescence and early adulthood. Studies indicate that the onset of many chronic diseases often occurs during this period.
These diseases can significantly impact the individual’s well-being and may also lead to a higher risk of developing other chronic conditions over time.
Types of Childhood Emerging Adults Diseases
There are several types of childhood emerging adults diseases.
Mental Health
Mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression, tend to occur during this period in life. Mental health problems during this stage can have severe consequences for individuals.
They may lead to social and occupational dysfunction and a lower quality of life in general. Proper treatment can help reduce the impact of the condition on the individual’s life.
Substance Use
Substance use disorders are also prevalent among emerging adults. These disorders involve recurrent use of substances such as drugs or alcohol, which results in significant impairment in the individual’s daily functioning.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder are also common among emerging adults. These disorders are characterized by abnormal eating behaviors, leading to severe physical and mental health problems.
Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders have become a health concern in the modern world, and emerging adults are not left out. Studies show that sleep disorders, such as insomnia and sleep apnea, are common during this period.
These conditions can significantly affect the daytime functioning of an individual.
Chronic Conditions
Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, which tend to occur during childhood, often continue into adulthood.
These conditions can take a toll on an individual’s mental, social, and physical aspects of life and can lead to a higher risk of developing other chronic conditions.
Causes of Childhood Emerging Adults Diseases
Several factors can contribute to the onset of childhood emerging adults’ diseases. These factors include:.
Environmental factors
The environment plays a significant role in the onset of some emerging adult diseases.
Exposure to environmental toxins such as lead, air pollution, and radiation can contribute to the onset of some diseases and may increase the risk of developing chronic diseases in the future. Social determinants such as low socio-economic status, poverty, and family stress also contribute significantly to the risk of developing chronic diseases.
Lifestyle factors
The emerging adult phase is often characterized by lifestyle changes, which can contribute significantly to the development of chronic diseases.
Related Article
Early Onset Adult Disease in Children
These lifestyle changes may include decreased physical activity levels, unhealthy eating habits, increased risk-taking behaviors, and substance use.
Genetic factors
Some diseases such as diabetes, some types of cancers, and heart diseases may have a genetic component that increases the risk of developing the disease.
Individuals with a family history of these diseases may be at a higher risk of developing them during the emerging adult phase.
Prevention and Treatment of Childhood Emerging Adults Diseases
Prevention and treatment of childhood emerging adults diseases depend on several factors, including the type of disease and the risk factors involved.
Mental Health
Mental health problems are treatable through several medications and therapies such as talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication therapy.
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits that promote mental well-being, such as exercise and healthy eating, can help prevent the onset of mental health problems.
Substance Use
Preventing substance use involves early education and awareness of the dangers of substance abuse. Early intervention and treatment of substance use problems can prevent the lasting damage caused by chronic substance abuse.
Eating Disorders
Treatment of eating disorders involves several therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, family therapy, and speech therapy.
Early intervention and treatment of eating disorders can help prevent the development of chronic eating disorders and other mental health problems.
Sleep Disorders
Lifestyle adjustments can help manage some sleep disorders such as improving sleep hygiene and adopting relaxation techniques. Treatment of some sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, may involve a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device.
Chronic Conditions
The prevention of chronic conditions involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as regular physical exercise and healthy eating.
Early intervention and management of some chronic conditions can prevent the onset of other chronic diseases that may develop as a result of the existing condition.
Conclusion
Childhood emerging adults diseases can significantly impact the well-being of individuals during adolescence and early adulthood.
The prevention of childhood emerging adult diseases involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits and early intervention and treatment of the conditions.
