Millions of young people could miss out on safe and effective treatments because so few take part in medical research, new data shows.
People aged 18–24 make up 8% of England’s population but only 4.4% of medical research participants, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Experts warn this gap means new treatments may not be properly tested for younger patients.
“Young adults face unique health challenges, from mental health to chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes,” said Kirsty Blenkins of the Association for Young People’s Health. “If they’re excluded from research, treatments may not be safe or effective for them.”
Dr Esther Mukuka of the NIHR added that taking part in research “isn’t just for the sick” and can involve simple actions like filling out surveys or giving samples. “If young people don’t get involved, the healthcare of tomorrow won’t reflect their needs,” she said.
Experts are calling for more inclusive recruitment and study design to ensure medical progress benefits everyone, not just older adults.
