Did you know that 25 million children in the United States have chronic illnesses, and that number is growing? The results of a national study published in 2025 found that cases of chronic illness increased from 1 in 5 kids in 1998 to 1 in 3 in 2018. Families can spend up to $9,000 a year on medical care for these children.
A chronic illness is a health condition that lasts more than one year and requires ongoing medical care. It makes daily activities difficult. Some common diagnoses that may lead to chronic illness include, but are not limited to:
- Asthma
- Cystic fibrosis
- Congenital heart disease
- Diabetes mellitus (Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes)
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Depression
Caring for a child with a chronic illness can be hard due to the costs and time involved. However, it’s vital to manage these conditions to avoid more issues as children grow.
Lowering the Risk of Chronic Illness in Children
Families can lower the risk of their children developing a chronic condition by:
- Getting medical care while pregnant
- Keeping regular visits with the child’s pediatrician
- Participating in early physical and developmental screenings
- Encouraging healthy eating
- Promoting daily physical activity
- Avoiding smoke and allergens
- Supporting the child’s mental health
Common Chronic Illnesses in Children
Some chronic illnesses that may be diagnosed in children or teenagers include:
Asthma
Asthma is an inflammatory lung condition that affects approximately 6 million U.S. children. Triggers like smoke and dust mites can cause flare-ups. Children with asthma may experience wheezing, coughing and find it difficult to breathe. Asthma is treated with medications and by avoiding triggers.
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is an inherited condition. It causes thick mucus in the lungs and digestive system, harming healthy tissues. About 40,000 people in the U.S. have this condition and may experience coughing and loose stools. They are more prone to lung infections and have difficulty gaining weight. They need to take several medications and vitamins while undergoing special treatments to clear mucus from their lungs.
Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital heart diseases affect almost 1% of live births. Severity varies. Symptoms may include the following:
- Changes in breathing
- Difficulty feeding
- Blue discoloration during feeding
- Irritability
- Trouble gaining weight
Kids with heart defects may need surgery, medications and special diets. They may not be able to exercise or move as much, so their heart does not get stressed. Working with the child’s heart specialist is important to find out which activities are safe for the child.
Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes)
Diabetes mellitus causes high blood sugar levels. In Type 1 diabetes, the body doesn’t make insulin. In Type 2 diabetes, the body still makes insulin but doesn’t know how to use it properly. About 80% of kids with Type 2 diabetes are overweight. Type 1 is the most common in children, affecting 1 in 300 children by age 18. Kids with diabetes need to check their blood sugar levels often, take medications and follow a strict diet.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD affects 5 to 15% of children in the U.S. It causes difficulty with attention and/or hyperactivity that disrupts functioning. Children with ADHD often struggle to complete tasks or concentrate. Health care professionals treat ADHD with medications and behavioral therapy sessions. The child may require adjustments in the classroom to bolster their success at school.
Depression
Depression is one of the most common chronic illnesses and affects 4% of children ages 3 to 7 in the United States. These children may feel unusually sad, and it may be challenging for them to find things that bring them happiness. Sometimes children may even consider or attempt to end their own life. They may need medications or therapy to help them feel better.
Helping Children with Chronic Illnesses
Caring for a child with a chronic condition can be tough.
Here are some tips to support your child:
- Keep appointments with the medical team.
- Write down questions and updates for medical visits.
- Learn about your child’s condition and ask for reliable sources.
- Attend training to learn how to administer medications and treatments safely.
- Stay with your child during medical appointments when possible.
- Encourage self-advocacy and independence.
- Share the medical plan with school staff and request accommodations.
- Look for community resources, such as help with funding for medical expenses.
Family members, like siblings, may also struggle.
Here are some strategies to help:
- Join a support group with families facing similar challenges.
- Teach other family members about the child’s chronic illness.
- Spend quality one-on-one time with siblings or family, even if it’s just for a short time.
- Plan fun activities or outings for the whole family to enjoy together.
- Ask for help and support when you need it, too.
Children Can Still Thrive with a Chronic Illness
Having a child with a chronic illness can change lives, but it doesn’t define you or them. Remember that family, medical teams, friends and often your community are here to offer support. Seek help, ask questions and take breaks when needed. Staying on top of your child’s care (and practicing self-care yourself) will help them achieve the best outcomes, prevent further complications and learn to thrive.
More to Read
- Understanding Congenital Heart Defects
- How are Allergies and Asthma Connected?
- Diabetes in Children: What Parents Should Know
- Be a Good Role Model: Building a Healthy Lifestyle With Your Kids
- Meals for Picky Eaters: Help Your Kids Enjoy Nutritious Food
- How to Help Children Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Concerned Your Child Has a Developmental Delay? Here’s What to Do
- Parenting and Mental Health: Building Your Toolkit
Medically reviewed by Rebecca Carter, MD.
