The Rise of Chronic Diseases

What Changed in the Last 30 Years?

In the last three decades, the prevalence of chronic diseases and disorders has skyrocketed, raising concerns about the health and well-being of millions worldwide. While genetics may play a role, the significant rise in these conditions suggests environmental, dietary, and lifestyle factors contribute to the epidemic.

The Shocking Statistics
According to data collected over the past 30 years, the increases in various diseases are alarming:
ADHD: 819% increase
Alzheimer’s Disease: 299% increase
Autism Spectrum Disorders: 2,094% increase
Bipolar Disorder in Youth: 10,833% increase
Celiac Disease: 1,111% increase
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: 11,027% increase
Depression: 280% increase
Diabetes: 305% increase
Fibromyalgia: 7,272% increase
Hypothyroidism: 702% increase
Lupus: 787% increase
Osteoarthritis: 449% increase
Sleep Apnea: 430% increase
Asthma: 412% increase
Autoimmune Disorders (general): 1,600% increase
Food Allergies in Children: 377% increase
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): 535% increase
These numbers highlight a growing health crisis that demands urgent attention and action.

The past 30 years have seen a dramatic rise in chronic diseases and disorders, as illustrated in the data provided. Understanding the reasons behind these increases is critical to addressing and preventing these health concerns.

The Rise of Chronic Diseases
Numerous conditions, including ADHD, Alzheimer’s disease, autism spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, and autoimmune diseases, have skyrocketed in prevalence since 1990. Various environmental, dietary, and lifestyle changes have contributed to these trends. Let us explore some of the most concerning health issues and their statistics.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
Autism rates have surged by 2,094% since 1990. According to the CDC, autism now affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States. While improved diagnostic criteria and awareness account for some of the increase, factors such as gut microbiome imbalances, environmental toxins, and genetic predispositions contribute. There is a huge demand for certified autism-neuro-developmental disorder health coaches.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD diagnoses have risen by 819% over the past three decades. Around 6.1 million children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ADHD. Potential causes include changes in diet, exposure to artificial additives, increased screen time, and genetic susceptibility.

Bipolar Disorder in Youth
Bipolar disorder in young individuals has experienced a staggering increase of 10,833%. While the exact reasons remain unclear, researchers are exploring the roles of early-life stress, environmental exposures, gut-brain connections, and nutritional deficiencies in mood disorders.

Food Allergies in Children
Food allergies among children have increased by 377%. The prevalence of peanut allergies alone has tripled in the past two decades. Hypotheses suggest that changes in food processing, gut health, and immune system development may contribute significantly.

Asthma
Asthma cases have risen by 412%. This respiratory condition is now one of the most common chronic illnesses in children. Increased pollution levels, exposure to indoor allergens, and dietary changes that impact immune function worsen this surge.

Get Tested: Do not Guess with Health.
When it comes to chronic diseases, prevention and early detection are key. Functional medicine testing offers a comprehensive way to assess gut health, inflammation, toxic exposures, and nutrient deficiencies that could be contributing to these conditions.
Health is invaluable—do not wait until illness occurs before taking action. Prioritize functional medicine testing and proactive care to optimize well-being.

Why Are Chronic Diseases Rising?
Several key factors are the major contributors to the exponential increase in chronic diseases over the last three decades:
1. Environmental Toxins and Pollution
Our environment has changed drastically, with increased exposure to toxins, heavy metals, and air pollution. Studies show that pesticide exposure, plastics, and industrial chemicals can disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to autoimmune diseases and metabolic disorders (Genuis & Kelln, 2015).
2. Dietary Changes and Processed Foods
The modern diet contains ultra-processed foods high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives. The consumption of these foods is linked to inflammation, insulin resistance, and gut dysbiosis—factors contributing to diabetes, autoimmune conditions, and neurological disorders (Monteiro et al., 2018).
3. Gut Health and Microbiome Disruption
The gut microbiome is crucial in immune function, metabolism, and mental health. Research shows that changes in gut bacteria due to antibiotic overuse, poor diet, and stress are linked to conditions like autism, ADHD, and autoimmune diseases (Cox & Weiner, 2018).
4. Increase in Sedentary Lifestyles
Physical inactivity is a significant risk factor for many chronic diseases. The rise of technology, screen time, and sedentary jobs has reduced physical activity levels, contributing to obesity, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular diseases (Booth et al., 2017).
5. Mental Health Crisis and Chronic Stress
Chronic stress and poor sleep quality are linked to hormonal imbalances, immune dysfunction, and inflammation. Studies show that prolonged stress increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and autoimmune conditions (Miller & Raison, 2016).

What Can Be Done to Reverse These Trends?
Reversing the epidemic of chronic diseases requires a multifaceted approach focused on lifestyle modifications, environmental awareness, and preventive healthcare.
1. Adopt a Whole-Food, Nutrient-Dense Diet
Reduce processed foods and refined sugars
Increase intake of organic fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric, omega-3s, and leafy greens
2. Prioritize Gut Health
Consume probiotic-rich foods like fermented vegetables, yogurt, and kefir
Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and opt for natural antimicrobials when possible
Reduce processed sugars that feed harmful gut bacteria
3. Reduce Toxin Exposure
Filter drinking water to remove heavy metals and chemicals
Choose organic foods to minimize pesticide exposure
Use natural personal care and cleaning products
4. Increase Physical Activity
Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement per day
Incorporate strength training, yoga, or outdoor activities
Reduce prolonged sitting and screen time
5. Manage Stress and Improve Sleep
Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises
Establish a consistent sleep routine
Limit exposure to blue light before bedtime

Get Tested—Do not Guess With Your Health.
Functional medicine testing is a powerful tool that helps identify imbalances before they become full-blown diseases.

Tests such as:
Gut microbiome analysis (to detect dysbiosis and leaky gut)
Hormone panels (to assess adrenal and thyroid function)
Food sensitivity testing (to identify inflammatory triggers)
Metabolic Testing (to test for difficult-to-detect inflammatory root causes of disease and imbalance)
Toxicity panels (to measure heavy metal and chemical exposures)

Taking control of your health starts with understanding your body’s unique needs. Prevention is key—you realize the value of wellness once it is lost.

References
Booth, F. W., Roberts, C. K., & Laye, M. J. (2017). Lack of exercise is a major cause of chronic diseases. Comprehensive Physiology, 2(2), 1143–1211. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6019055/
Cox, L. M., & Weiner, H. L. (2018). Microbiota signaling pathways that influence neurologic disease. Neurotherapeutics, 15(1), 135-145. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30508563/
Genuis, S. J., & Kelln, K. L. (2015). Toxicant exposure and bioaccumulation: A neglected factor in chronic disease causation. Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2015, 795892. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4535903/
Miller, A. H., & Raison, C. L. (2016). The role of inflammation in depression: From evolutionary imperative to modern treatment target. Nature Reviews Immunology, 16(1), 22-34. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27559967/
Monteiro, C. A., Cannon, G., Levy, R. B., Moubarac, J. C., Louzada, M. L. C., Rauber, F., … & Jaime, P. C. (2018). Ultra-processed foods: What they are and how to identify them. Public Health Nutrition, 21(1), 5-11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6091116/

Take Action Now If you or a loved one are experiencing chronic health issues, consider working with a functional medicine practitioner to get comprehensive testing and personalized treatment. The sooner you take control of your health, the better your future will be!

Recap:
WHAT CHANGED IN THE LAST 30 YEARS?
ADHD: 819%
Alzheimer’s Disease: 299%
Autism Spectrum Disorders: 2,094%
Bipolar Disorder in Youth: 10,833%
Celiac Disease: 1,111%
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: 11,027%
Depression: 280%
Diabetes: 305%
Fibromyalgia: 7,272%
Hypothyroidism: 702%
Lupus: 787%
Osteoarthritis: 449%
Sleep Apnea: 430%
Asthma: 412%
Autoimmune Disorders (general): 1,600%
Food Allergies in Children: 377%
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: 535%

The Role of Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Many of these diseases have been linked to lifestyle choices, environmental toxins, diet, and stress. The modern diet, filled with processed foods, high sugar intake, and nutrient deficiencies, has contributed significantly to the rise in metabolic disorders. Additionally, exposure to heavy metals, chemicals, and endocrine disruptors has played a crucial role in autoimmune and neurological conditions.
What Can Be Done?
Taking proactive steps towards a healthier lifestyle is crucial. This includes:
Eating a nutrient-dense, whole-food diet
Reducing exposure to toxins
Managing stress effectively
Prioritizing sleep and exercise
Get Tested – Don’t Guess with Your Health
One of the most effective ways to take control of your health is through functional medicine testing. Rather than guessing what might be wrong, these advanced tests comprehensively examine your body’s needs, imbalances, and potential deficiencies. Once you lose your health, you truly realize its value. Functional medicine testing empowers you with knowledge, helping you take preventative action before symptoms worsen. Investing in your health today can lead to a better quality of life.

Want to work with children and families?
Looking for a new career path with a profound mission?
Join the revolution, register for the Total Wellness Empowerment Health Coach training, become a certified health coach, and start incorporating functional medicine labs to gain insight and results.

Learn More About the Training & Register Today

Tags: ASD training, autism health coach training, functional medicine lab testing, functional medicine training, Nancy Guberti, Total Wellness Empowerment Institute