🟢 Strong Evidence
An estimated 2.1 million people aged 5-24 years died worldwide in 2024, according to a comprehensive modelling study published in The BMJ. The research reveals that despite overall improvements in child health, progress in reducing youth mortality has stagnated, with deaths among older adolescents and young adults declining more slowly than in younger age groups.
Key takeaways
- Global youth deaths (ages 5-24) reached 2.1 million in 2024, representing 31% of all under-25 deaths
- Male mortality consistently exceeds female mortality, with the gap widening with age
- West and Central Africa saw absolute death numbers increase despite mortality rate improvements due to population growth
- Progress has slowed since 2015, with some regions showing mortality increases
Study at a Glance
| Source | The BMJ |
| Study type | Global modelling study |
| Sample size | 200 countries and territories |
| Population | Children, adolescents, and youth aged 5-24 years |
| Country | Global analysis |
Shifting Demographics of Child and Youth Mortality
The proportion of deaths occurring in the 5-24 age group has increased substantially over the past three decades, rising from 21% of all under-25 deaths in 1990 to 31% in 2024, according to the BMJ study. This shift reflects the epidemiological transition occurring globally, where dramatic improvements in under-5 mortality have not been matched by equivalent progress in older age groups.
The BMJ study utilized data from vital registration systems, household surveys, and population censuses across 200 countries to construct comprehensive mortality estimates.
Youth Mortality Risk by Age Group, 2024
Deaths per 1,000 population, global estimates
Source: The BMJ, 2025 | Georgian Medical Journal News
According to the BMJ study, mortality risk follows a distinct pattern, with the lowest rates occurring at ages 10-14 years (2.7 deaths per 1,000 population) before increasing in adolescence and early adulthood.
Persistent Gender Disparities Across All Age Groups
Male mortality consistently exceeded female mortality across all age groups studied, with the gender gap widening with age, according to the BMJ study. The research found that male mortality declined by only 26% among 20-24 year-olds between 1990 and 2024, compared to a 43% reduction in female mortality for the same age group.
For more analysis on health disparities, see our coverage of global health inequities. The findings align with broader patterns documented in our data-driven health reporting.
Progress has been uneven: mortality fell by 64% for people aged 5-9 years from 1990 to 2024, compared with 33% for people aged 20-24 years, with slower declines in male mortality
— BMJ Global Youth Mortality Study (The BMJ, 2025)
Regional Variations and Stagnating Progress
The BMJ study revealed significant regional disparities, with West and Central Africa experiencing particular challenges. Despite improvements in mortality rates, population growth in this region outpaced mortality decline, resulting in an increase in the absolute number of deaths among youth.
Progress has notably slowed since 2015 across multiple regions, according to the study. Some traditionally low-mortality areas, including North America, have experienced increases in youth mortality rates for ages 10-24 years.
Implications for Global Health Investment Priorities
The concentration of deaths in specific regions and age groups suggests opportunities for targeted interventions, according to the BMJ research. The study indicates that the epidemiological importance of the 5-24 age group is increasing relative to younger children.
What this means
Frequently asked questions
Why is youth mortality increasing as a proportion of total child deaths?
While absolute youth mortality has declined, the dramatic improvements in under-5 mortality have been much faster, making the 5-24 age group represent a larger share of remaining child and youth deaths. This reflects successful interventions in early childhood that haven’t been matched in older age groups.
Which regions show the most concerning trends?
West and Central Africa face the greatest challenges, with absolute death numbers increasing despite rate improvements due to population growth. Additionally, some traditionally low-mortality regions like North America show concerning increases since 2015.
Why do male mortality rates remain consistently higher?
The gender gap reflects multiple factors including higher rates of risk-taking behaviors, violence exposure, and accidents among males. Social and cultural factors also contribute to delayed healthcare seeking and higher engagement in dangerous activities.
The BMJ study’s findings underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive global response that addresses the distinct health challenges facing adolescents and young adults.
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