Here is his opinion:
In recent years, medical professionals have noted a significant decline in children's health, which is associated not only with individual diseases but also with a complex of factors that weaken the body from an early age. The issue of children's health is already going beyond isolated cases and becoming important for society as a whole.
The Transformation of Childhood
Several decades ago, childhood was filled with movement, outdoor games, and interaction with peers. Physical activity, hardening, and regular walks were an integral part of life.
Today's children most often:
• spend most of their time indoors;
• lead a sedentary lifestyle;
• interact with the world primarily through screens;
• adapt early to a sedentary way of life.
These changes are shaping a new generation that finds itself more isolated and less prepared for physical and social challenges.
Loss of Hardening and Adaptive Abilities
Hardening, which was once an important part of upbringing, began at an early age. Regular time spent outdoors and gradual adaptation to cold contributed to strengthening the body, including the cardiovascular system.
Currently, such practices have almost disappeared. Children are less often outside, cope poorly with climate changes, and get sick more frequently. Their bodies are becoming less resilient, which affects their overall health level.
Low Physical Activity and Risks for the Cardiovascular System
As a specialist in pediatric cardiology, I observe the negative consequences of physical inactivity. A lack of physical activity directly affects the development of the heart and blood vessels. In my practice, I increasingly encounter:
• disturbances in autonomic regulation;
• instability of blood pressure;
• functional disorders of heart rhythm;
• poor tolerance to physical exertion.
For a growing body, movement is one of the most important stimuli. Without it, the cardiovascular system cannot develop properly.
Digital Environment and Lack of Socialization
Digital technologies are becoming an inseparable part of children's lives. Many of them hardly leave their apartments, replacing live communication with virtual interactions. A lack of socialization, disruptions in sleep and wakefulness patterns, and a lack of physical activity create chronic stress, which negatively affects heart health and the overall psycho-emotional state of children.
Decline of Collective Health Initiatives
Another issue is the disappearance of mass forms of collective health initiatives that previously contributed to the formation of immunity in children. Summer camps, recreation centers, and sanatoriums provided not only physical activity but also strengthened collective immunity.
Currently, the number of children participating in such programs has significantly decreased. Many of them grow up in isolated conditions, lacking regular contact with nature and peers, which reduces their adaptive abilities and increases susceptibility to infections.
Refusal of Vaccination and New Infectious Threats
Amid the decline of collective health initiatives, there is another serious problem — parents' refusal of mandatory vaccinations. This leads to a loss of collective immunity and the resurgence of infections that were previously considered under control.
A lack of collective immunization creates a risk of outbreaks and epidemics, especially for children with chronic diseases, including cardiovascular ones.
Self-Medication and Uncontrolled Use of Antibiotics
It is also important to note the risk associated with self-treatment of children. Uncontrolled use of antibiotics, especially for viral infections, leads to the development of antibiotic resistance and a weakening of the immune system, increasing the likelihood of complications.
These practices undermine trust in medical assistance and create a false sense of control over diseases.
Prospects for the Future
If current trends continue, society may face:
• an increase in chronic diseases among children and adolescents;
• a rise in cardiovascular disorders among youth;
• a deterioration in physical and social adaptation;
• an increased burden on the healthcare system.
In other words, we are talking about the potential formation of a generation with weakened health and reduced adaptive potential.
Shared Responsibility for Children's Health
Caring for children's health is not only the responsibility of parents but of society as a whole. A comprehensive approach is needed, including:
• the return of physical activity and collective forms of leisure;
• the development of accessible sports and health programs;
• a conscious attitude towards vaccination;
• a refusal to self-medicate and trust in medical professionals;
• the formation of a culture of healthy living from early childhood.
Children's health is a strategic resource for the country. The quality of life for future generations depends on the conditions we create today.
