Why Gen Z has a low participation in medical trials
What's the story
A recent analysis by The Guardian has revealed that Generation Z, those born in the late 1990s and early 2000s, is underrepresented in clinical trials and health studies. Despite making up 8% of England's population, people aged between 18-24 only account for a mere 4.4% of participants in medical research. This discrepancy raises concerns about the potential risks posed by new treatments for health conditions to millions of young people.
Health concerns
Lack of representation could have dire consequences
Though young adults are less prone to life-threatening diseases like cancer and heart disease, they still bear a considerable burden of disease. Nearly 45% of those aged 24 or under suffer from a long-term physical or mental health condition. Experts warn that the lack of young people in research could have dire consequences for their physical and mental health for decades unless immediate action is taken to reverse this trend.
Health challenges
Treatments may be designed primarily on older adults, warns expert
Kirsty Blenkins, Deputy CEO of the Association for Young People's Health, emphasized that those aged 24 and under face a distinct set of health challenges. These are often shaped by major life transitions, social pressures, and inequalities that impact their physical and mental wellbeing. She warned that their absence from clinical and health research projects has serious implications as treatments may be designed primarily on older adults.
Participation barriers
Factors explaining low participation of Gen Z in studies
Blenkins also noted several factors that could explain the low participation of Gen Z in studies. These include limited awareness of research opportunities, lack of targeted recruitment, confidentiality concerns, and a research culture not designed with or for young adults. She emphasized that increasing representation requires a more inclusive research design involving young people from the start and making participation accessible and relevant.
Research data
Stark contrast to older age groups
Data from the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) shows that adults aged 18-24 are significantly underrepresented in health research. Between April 2021 and March 2024, only about seven young people per study participated in NIHR-backed studies. This is a stark contrast to those aged 85 or older who, despite making up just 2% of the population, signed up for research over three years to 2024.
Awareness gap
Young people often unaware of necessity to participate in research
Dr. Esther Mukuka, NIHR's Director for Research Inclusion, stressed that young people are often unaware of their ability and necessity to participate in health research. She clarified that research isn't just about experimental treatments for serious illnesses but also shapes how we manage everyday conditions like diabetes and mental health support on the NHS. Mukuka emphasized the need for young people to engage with the healthcare system differently due to their unique health challenges.
Health conditions
Long-term health conditions affecting young adults
Long-term health conditions affecting the young adults include diabetes, obesity, autism, asthma, learning difficulties, epilepsy, eating disorders, and a range of other mental health conditions. Dr. Mukuka warned that if this group doesn't participate in research, the treatments and services developed as a result will not reflect their needs. She stressed the importance of young people's participation in research to ensure future treatments are representative and effective.