Reframing 'chronic conditions' in adolescent health: why terminology matters for person-centred and equitable care

Area of Science:

• Health Policy
• Adolescent Medicine
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• The terms "chronic health conditions" and "long-term health conditions" are often used interchangeably.
• "Chronic" emphasizes ongoing medical management (biomedical, adult-centered).
• "Long-term" highlights enduring consequences for development and life course wellbeing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the implications of terminology in health conditions, particularly for adolescent health.
• To argue that adult-centered biomedical framings obscure crucial developmental, relational, and contextual dimensions of care for adolescents.
• To advocate for reframing terminology to support adolescent-centered, developmentally appropriate care.

Main Methods:

• This study presents a debate and critical analysis of existing terminology.
• It examines policy, research, and practice through the lens of adolescent health.
• The authors propose a conceptual reframing of health condition terminology.

Main Results:

• Current terminology, rooted in adult-centered biomedical logic, inadequately addresses adolescent needs.
• Relying on "chronic" obscures developmental, relational, and contextual aspects vital for adolescent wellbeing.
• Reframing terminology can foster holistic, adolescent-centered care models.

Conclusions:

• Shifting from "chronic health conditions" to "long-term health conditions" supports adolescent-centered care.
• This reframing extends beyond disease control to encompass physical, psychological, and social wellbeing.
• The proposed shift enhances interventions, service delivery, and policy for adolescents and across the life course.