Preface

Lifestyle-related diseases, also known as non-communicable diseases (NCDs), are increasingly affecting adolescents worldwide. The rise of these conditions in adolescents is driven by various factors related to modern lifestyles, and it presents significant public health challenges globally. Addressing lifestyle-related diseases in adolescents requires a multifaceted approach involving individual, community, and policy-level interventions. In 2005, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that 61 per cent of all deaths -- 35 million -- and 49 per cent of the global burden of disease were attributable to chronic diseases. By 2030, the proportion of total global deaths due to chronic diseases is expected to increase to 70% and the global burden of disease to 56%. Chronic conditions like Asthma affects about 14% of children globally, making it one of the most common chronic conditions in youth and Around 0.6% of children and adolescents worldwide have active epilepsy. Early prevention and health promotion strategies are crucial to curbing the rising trend of NCDs and ensuring a healthier future generation.

While developed countries have higher rates of adolescent obesity, developing countries are catching up due to urbanization and changes in dietary patterns. Early onset of LSRDs leads to a longer duration of illness and complications, reducing the quality of life and increasing healthcare costs. Adolescents with LSRDs are more likely to experience morbidity and premature mortality in adulthood.

Recently it was observed that the youth are suffering from many lifestyle-related diseases (LSRDs). Neurological disorders, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, infertility, and hormonal imbalance problems such as Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) are all common outcomes of unhealthy lifestyle choices.

The objective of the book “Lifestyle Related Diseases in Adolescents: Diseases, Disorders, and Preventive Measures” is to provide a comprehensive overview of the various health issues and diseases that are influenced by lifestyle factors in adolescents The lifestyle related disease among adolescents is a serious threat. An updated understanding is the need of time and crucial for setting the groundwork for policy formulation for long-term public health. There are twelve chapters in which we have taken a multicentric approach with topics ranging from dental health, diabetes during adolescence, cancer, bronchial toxicity to heart diseases, neurological disorders, GIT diseases, ovarian syndrome and infectious diseases.