Life Expectancy Statistics 2024 By Health Progress

Introduction

Life Expectancy Statistics: Life expectancy is the average number of years a person is expected to live based on current mortality rates in a specific population.

It is influenced by healthcare quality, lifestyle choices, economic conditions, genetics, environmental factors, and social determinants like education and public health policies.

Typically measured as life expectancy at birth, it reflects the average lifespan of a newborn. However, it can also be assessed for older ages, such as 65, to predict additional years of life.

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• Life Science Analytics Market size is expected to be worth around USD 20.9 Billion by 2033 from USD 9.7 Billion in 2023.
• By the end of the 21st century, global life expectancy at birth is anticipated to rise to 81.16 years in 2090 and reach 82.06 years by 2100.
• Globally, life expectancy rose from 66 years in 1998 to 72.91 years in 2020.
• Between 2050 and 2055, Hong Kong SAR (89.22 years), Macao SAR (88.55 years), and Japan (88.53 years) are projected to have the highest life expectancies, reflecting advancements in healthcare and living standards.
• Between 2050 and 2055, the Central African Republic is projected to have the lowest life expectancy at 62.13 years, reflecting challenges in health and living conditions.
• In 2023, global male life expectancy at birth stood at 70.5 years and is projected to rise to 74.7 years by 2050.
• In 2023, the global female life expectancy at birth averaged 75.9 years and is projected to increase to 79.5 years by 2050.
• Further, In 2017, various factors were identified as contributors to the declining life expectancy in the U.S., with drug and substance abuse being cited by 51% of respondents as the most significant issue.

Life Expectancy at Birth Worldwide

• The global life expectancy at birth has shown a consistent increase from 1950 to 2020, with projections extending this growth trend until 2100.
• In 1950, life expectancy stood at 46.46 years, increasing to 53.12 years by 1960 and 56.11 years in 1970.
• The upward trend continued through subsequent decades, reaching 60.55 years in 1980, 63.99 years in 1990, and 66.45 years in 2000.
• By 2010, life expectancy rose significantly to 70.11 years and further increased to 72.04 years in 2020.
• Future projections indicate continued growth, with life expectancy expected to reach 74.57 years by 2030, 76.01 years by 2040, and 77.25 years by 2050.
• The steady rise is projected to persist, with life expectancy predicted to be 78.31 years in 2060, 79.32 years in 2070, and 80.25 years in 2080.
• By the end of the 21st century, global life expectancy at birth is anticipated to rise to 81.16 years in 2090 and reach 82.06 years by 2100.
• This progression reflects the continuous advancements in healthcare, sanitation, and living conditions worldwide.

(Source: Statista)

Expectancy in Various Continents

• In 2023, average life expectancy at birth varied across continents and genders, reflecting global disparities.
• Oceania and Europe recorded the highest life expectancies for both males and females, with males averaging 76 years and females 81 years in both regions.
• North America followed closely, with life expectancy at 74 years for males and 80 years for females.
• In Asia, males had an average life expectancy of 72 years, while females lived slightly longer, reaching 76 years.
• Worldwide, the average life expectancy stood at 70 years for males and 75 years for females.
• In Latin America and the Caribbean, males averaged 71 years, while females lived longer at 77 years.
• Africa reported the lowest life expectancies, with males averaging 61 years and females 65 years.
• Moreover, these figures highlight significant differences in life expectancy across continents and between genders, influenced by factors such as healthcare access, socioeconomic conditions, and living standards.

(Source: Statista)

Life Expectancy from Birth in Various Regions and Countries

Global

• The average life expectancy at birth has significantly increased worldwide and across various countries and regions between 1820 and 2020.
• Globally, life expectancy rose from 26 years in 1820 to 31 years in 1900, 49 years in 1950, 66 years in 1998, and 72.91 years in 2020.

Higher-level

• Among countries, Japan experienced remarkable growth, with life expectancy increasing from 34 years in 1820 to 44 in 1900, 61 in 1950, 81 in 1998, and reaching 84.65 years in 2020.
• Spain followed a similar trend, rising from 28 years in 1820 to 35 in 1900, 62 in 1950, 78 in 1998, and 83.6 years in 2020. Italy improved from 30 years in 1820 to 43 in 1900, 66 in 1950, 78 in 1998, and 83.53 years in 2020. Sweden saw a rise from 39 years in 1820 to 56 in 1900, 70 in 1950, 79 in 1998, and 82.9 years in 2020.
• France improved from 37 years in 1820 to 47 in 1900, 65 in 1950, 78 in 1998, and 82.66 years in 2020. The Netherlands saw an increase from 32 years in 1820 to 52 in 1900, 72 in 1950, 78 in 1998, and 82.38 years in 2020. Germany rose from 41 years in 1820 to 47 in 1900, 67 in 1950, 77 in 1998, and 81.43 years in 2020.
• The United Kingdom’s life expectancy increased from 40 years in 1820 to 50 in 1900, 69 in 1950, 77 in 1998, and 81.37 years in 2020. The average life expectancy in Western Europe collectively rose from 36 years in 1820 to 46 in 1900, 67 in 1950, 78 in 1998, and 81.72 years in 2020.

Mid-level

• In Russia, life expectancy increased from 28 years in 1820 to 32 in 1900, 65 in 1950, 67 in 1998, and 72.5 years in 2020. The United States saw a rise from 39 years in 1820 to 47 in 1900, 68 in 1950, 77 in 1998, and 78.85 years in 2020.
• In Latin America, Brazil’s life expectancy rose from 27 years in 1820 to 36 in 1900, 45 in 1950, 67 in 1998, and 76.08 years in 2020, while Mexico’s life expectancy grew from 33 years in 1900 to 50 in 1950, 72 in 1998, and 75.13 years in 2020. The average life expectancy in Latin America improved from 27 years in 1820 to 35 in 1900, 51 in 1950, 69 in 1998, and 75.24 years in 2020.
• In Asia, China’s life expectancy rose from 24 years in 1820 to 41 in 1950, 71 in 1998, and 77.13 years in 2020. India’s life expectancy increased from 21 years in 1820 to 24 in 1900, 32 in 1950, 60 in 1998, and 69.89 years in 2020. The average life expectancy in Asia increased from 23 years in 1820 to 24 in 1900, 40 in 1950, 66 in 1998, and 73.28 years in 2020.
• In Africa, life expectancy improved from 23 years in 1820 to 24 in 1900, 38 in 1950, 52 in 1998, and 62.66 years in 2020. These trends reflect significant progress in healthcare, living standards, and socioeconomic development across the globe.

(Source: Statista)

Life Expectancy in Industrial and Developing Countries

• In 2023, average life expectancy at birth varied significantly across country development levels and genders.
• In more developed countries, men had an average life expectancy of 75 years, while women lived longer, averaging 81 years.
• In less developed countries, the figures were lower, with men averaging 69 years and women 73 years.
• The least developed countries showed the lowest life expectancies, with men living an average of 63 years and women 67 years.
• Globally, the total average life expectancy stood at 70 years for men and 75 years for women, highlighting the persistent disparities in health outcomes and living conditions between regions with varying levels of development.

(Source: Statista)

Countries with the Highest Life Expectancy Statistics

• Between 2050 and 2055, several countries and territories are projected to achieve the highest average life expectancies at birth, reflecting advancements in healthcare, living standards, and overall well-being.
• Leading this list is Hong Kong SAR, China, with a remarkable life expectancy of 89.22 years, followed by Macao SAR, China (88.55 years), and Japan (88.53 years).
• Switzerland is projected at 87.76 years, while Singapore follows closely with 87.63 years.
• Italy and Spain are expected to reach life expectancies of 87.6 years and 87.58 years, respectively, alongside Australia (87.5 years) and the Republic of Korea (87.35 years).
• Other notable regions include Martinique (87.23 years), the Channel Islands (87.18 years), Israel (87.13 years), and Iceland (87.12 years).
• Sweden is projected at 86.96 years, while Guadeloupe, Malta, and France share similar expectations of 86.83 and 86.81 years.
• Canada is projected at 86.75 years, followed by Ireland (86.69 years), Luxembourg (86.62 years), New Zealand (86.61 years), and Norway (86.6 years).
• Greece is expected to reach 86.53 years, Portugal 86.51 years, and the Netherlands 86.48 years.
• These projections underscore the ongoing progress in improving health outcomes, quality of life, and longevity in these countries and territories.

(Source: Statista)

Countries with the Lowest Life Expectancy Statistics

• Between 2050 and 2055, the countries and territories projected to have the lowest average life expectancies at birth highlight ongoing challenges in improving health and living conditions in these regions.
• The Central African Republic is expected to have the lowest life expectancy, at 62.13 years, followed by Chad at 62.49 years.
• Nigeria is projected to reach 63.55 years, while Côte d’Ivoire and Sierra Leone are expected to have life expectancies of 64.44 years and 64.56 years, respectively.
• South Sudan follows closely at 64.95 years, with Lesotho (65.01 years) and Somalia (65.14 years) slightly higher.
• Guinea-Bissau is projected at 66.39 years, while Equatorial Guinea and Mali are expected to have life expectancies of 66.57 and 67.06 years, respectively.
• Cameroon is projected at 67.32 years, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo at 67.88 years.
• Eswatini is expected to reach 68.06 years, Togo 68.18 years, Zimbabwe 68.52 years, and Benin 68.68 years.
• Guinea and Angola are both projected at approximately 69.06 and 69.08 years, respectively, while Gambia (69.36 years) and Comoros (69.59 years) follow closely.
• Papua New Guinea is expected to have a life expectancy of 69.66 years, Mauritania 69.8 years, and Congo 69.86 years. South Africa, with the highest projection among this group, is expected to reach 70.1 years.
• These figures underline the need for continued investment in healthcare, education, and infrastructure to improve longevity in these countries.

(Source: Statista)

Male Life Expectancy Statistics

Countries with the Longest Male Life Expectancy Statistics

• In 2010, the top ten countries with the longest average male life expectancy at birth showcased impressive figures, with Australia leading at 80.1 years, closely followed by Switzerland at 80.01 years.
• Canada recorded 79.41 years, while New Zealand and the Netherlands followed at 79.01 and 78.91 years, respectively.
• Italy had a life expectancy of 78.94 years, Norway 78.69 years, Spain 78.66 years, Ireland 77.96 years, and South Korea 77.11 years.
• By 2030, significant improvements are projected, with South Korea experiencing the most notable rise to 84.07 years, surpassing Australia at 84 years.
• Switzerland is expected to reach 83.95 years, Canada 83.89 years, and the Netherlands 83.69 years.
• New Zealand’s life expectancy is projected at 83.59 years, followed by Spain at 83.47 years, Ireland at 83.22 years, Norway at 83.16 years, and Italy at 82.82 years.
• These projections reflect advancements in healthcare, living standards, and social development in these countries.

(Source: Statista)

Male Life Expectancy – By Region Statistics

• In 2023, global male life expectancy at birth stood at 70.5 years and is projected to rise to 74.7 years by 2050.
• Sub-Saharan Africa recorded the lowest life expectancy at 60.1 years in 2023, with an expected increase to 64.5 years by 2050.
• Northern Africa and Western Asia had a life expectancy of 71.5 years in 2023, forecasted to rise to 76 years by 2050.
• In Central and Southern Asia, male life expectancy is expected to grow from 70 years in 2023 to 75.1 years in 2050.
• Eastern and South-Eastern Asia showed higher figures, with life expectancy at 73.9 years in 2023, projected to increase to 78.9 years by 2050.
• Latin America and the Caribbean recorded 72.8 years in 2023, with an expected rise to 77.7 years in 2050.
• Australia and New Zealand maintained the highest male life expectancy at 81.8 years in 2023, with no change projected by 2050.
• Oceania (excluding Australia and New Zealand) reported a life expectancy of 65.3 years in 2023, expected to grow to 67.9 years by 2050.
• Europe and North America also displayed high life expectancy, starting at 76 years in 2023 and projected to reach 81 years by 2050.
• These figures highlight global improvements in male longevity, driven by advancements in healthcare and living conditions, while also reflecting persistent regional disparities.

(Source: Statista)

Female Life Expectancy Statistics

Countries with the Longest Life Expectancy Among Females Statistics

• In 2010, the top ten countries with the highest average female life expectancy at birth showcased remarkable longevity, led by Japan at 86.66 years, followed by France at 84.86 years, and Spain at 84.83 years.
• South Korea recorded an average female life expectancy of 84.23 years, with Switzerland at 84.59 years, Australia at 84.53 years, and Italy at 84.18 years.
• Canada, Portugal, and Slovenia rounded out the top ten with life expectancies of 83.94 years, 83.14 years, and 82.68 years, respectively.
• By 2030, significant improvements are projected, with South Korea expected to lead at an exceptional 90.82 years, followed by France at 88.55 years and Japan at 88.41 years.
• Spain is projected to reach 88.07 years, Switzerland 87.7 years, and Australia 87.57 years.
• Portugal and Slovenia are expected to achieve life expectancies of 87.52 years and 87.42 years, respectively, while Italy is projected at 87.28 years and Canada at 87.09 years.
• These projections highlight the consistent advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and overall living standards that contribute to female longevity in these countries.

(Source: Statista)

Female Life Expectancy – By Region Statistics

• In 2023, the global female life expectancy at birth averaged 75.9 years and is projected to increase to 79.5 years by 2050.
• Sub-Saharan Africa had the lowest female life expectancy at 64.1 years in 2023, expected to rise to 69.3 years by 2050.
• Northern Africa and Western Asia recorded 76.2 years in 2023, with an increase forecasted to 80.4 years.
• Central and Southern Asia showed an average of 73.6 years in 2023, projected to reach 79 years by 2050.
• Eastern and Southeast Asia had a higher life expectancy of 80 years in 2023, which is expected to rise further to 83.6 years by 2050.
• Latin America and the Caribbean followed closely at 78.6 years in 2023, with a projected increase to 82.4 years.
• Oceania (excluding Australia and New Zealand) recorded a life expectancy of 70.6 years in 2023, which is expected to rise to 73.8 years by 2050.
• Australia and New Zealand showed the highest female life expectancy, at 85.4 years in 2023, expected to increase to 88.5 years by 2050.
• Europe and North America also demonstrated high life expectancy levels, averaging 82.4 years in 2023 and projected to rise to 85.7 years by 2050.
• These figures reflect overall improvements in female longevity across all regions, driven by advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and living conditions, though significant disparities remain between regions.

(Source: Statista)

Expectancy – By Income Group

• Between 1990 and 2013, global average life expectancy at birth increased across all income groups, reflecting improvements in healthcare, living standards, and economic development.
• In high-income countries, life expectancy rose from 75 years in 1990 to 79 years in 2013.
• Upper-middle-income countries experienced significant progress, with life expectancy increasing from 68 years in 1990 to 74 years in 2013.
• Low-income countries also saw substantial improvements, with life expectancy rising from 59 years in 1990 to 66 years in 2013.
• The greatest relative improvement occurred in lower-middle-income countries, where life expectancy increased from 53 years in 1990 to 62 years in 2013.
• These trends highlight ongoing efforts to close the health disparities between income groups, though significant gaps persist.

(Source: Statista)

Expectancy in North America

• In 2022, the average life expectancy in North America demonstrated gender and regional variations.
• Across the region, males had an average life expectancy of 74 years, while females lived longer, averaging 80 years.
• Canada recorded the highest life expectancy, with males living an average of 80 years and females 84 years.
• In comparison, the United States reported a lower life expectancy, with males averaging 73 years and females 79 years.
• These figures highlight differences in healthcare, living conditions, and societal factors within North America.

(Source: Statista)

Life Expectancy in Europe

Expectancy at Birth in Europe

• Between 1950 and 2021, life expectancy at birth in Europe showed significant improvements, reflecting advancements in healthcare, living standards, and quality of life.
• In 1950, life expectancy was 62.8 years, increasing to 66 years by 1955 and 68.8 years by 1960.
• The upward trend continued into the mid-20th century, with life expectancy reaching 69.8 years in 1965, 70 years in 1970, and 70.5 years in 1975.
• By 1980, it rose to 70.9 years, and by 1985, it had climbed to 71.7 years.
• In 1990, life expectancy was 72.9 years, but it experienced a slight dip to 72.2 years by 1995.
• Recovery followed, with life expectancy increasing to 73.5 years in 2000, 74.5 years in 2005, and 76.5 years in 2010.
• By 2015, life expectancy had reached 78 years, peaking at 77.7 years in 2020 before slightly declining to 77 years in 2021.
• These figures demonstrate sustained progress in life expectancy over the decades despite minor fluctuations.

(Source: Statista)

Life Expectancy in Europe – By Region Statistics

• In 2024, average life expectancy in Europe showed regional variations, with females consistently living longer than males across all regions.
• For Europe as a whole, male life expectancy was 76 years, while females averaged 82 years.
• In Western Europe, males had a life expectancy of 79 years, and females lived longer at 84 years.
• Southern Europe exhibited the highest male life expectancy at 80 years, matching the female figure of 84 years.
• Similarly, Northern Europe reported a male life expectancy of 80 years and a slightly lower figure for females at 83 years.
• In contrast, Eastern Europe displayed the lowest life expectancy, with males averaging only 69 years and females 79 years.
• These disparities highlight the differences in healthcare systems, socioeconomic conditions, and living standards across European regions.

(Source: Statista)

Life Expectancy in Asia Statistics

Life Expectancy – By Region Statistics

• In 2023, average life expectancy in Asia varied significantly by region and gender, with females generally living longer than males across all areas.
• For the continent as a whole, male life expectancy averaged 72 years, while females reached 76 years.
• East Asia had the highest life expectancy, with males averaging 76 years and females 82 years.
• Western Asia followed, with males living 72 years and females 77 years.
• In Central Asia, male and female life expectancies were lower, at 70 years and 76 years, respectively.
• Southeast Asia reported similar figures to the overall Asian average, with males living 72 years and females 75 years.
• South Asia had the lowest life expectancy, with males averaging 68 years and females 71 years.
• These figures reflect disparities in healthcare access, economic development, and living conditions across the different regions of Asia.

(Source: Statista)

Life Expectancy After Age 65 Statistics

• In 2050, the forecasted life expectancy after age 65 in Asia varies significantly across countries and between genders, with women consistently outliving men.
• Hong Kong is projected to have the highest post-65 life expectancy, with women living an additional 27.8 years and men 23.1 years.
• Japan follows closely, with women expected to live 27.7 more years and men 22.7 years. South Korea also shows high figures, with women forecasted to live 26.1 years and men 21.8 years.
• Singapore and Taiwan are also notable, with women living an additional 25.8 and 24.1 years, respectively, while men live 22.7 and 22.2 years.
• Thailand is expected to have a post-65 life expectancy of 23 years for women and 20.4 years for men, while Vietnam shows figures of 21.9 years for women and 18.7 years for men.
• In China, women are forecasted to live 21 more years after 65, and men 18.6 years. Sri Lanka shows similar numbers, with women living an additional 21.5 years and men 18.9 years.
• Malaysia’s figures are 20.3 years for women and 19.3 years for men, while the Philippines projects 19.9 years for women and 15.3 years for men.
• In Indonesia, women are expected to live 18.8 more years, and men 16 years.
• India follows with 17.4 years for women and 15.6 years for men, while Cambodia and Laos show the lowest figures, with Cambodian women living 17.2 years and men 15.2 years, and Laotian women 16.8 years and men 14 years.
• These projections highlight the regional variations in longevity and the consistent gender gap in post-retirement life expectancy.

(Source: Statista)

Life Expectancy in Latin America & Caribbean Statistics

• Between 2011 and 2022, life expectancy at birth in Latin America and the Caribbean experienced fluctuations, reflecting regional health trends and challenges.
• In 2011, life expectancy stood at 73.87 years and steadily increased over the next several years, reaching 74.1 years in 2012, 74.35 years in 2013, 74.55 years in 2014, and 74.61 years in 2015.
• After a slight decline to 74.58 years in 2016, it rose again to 74.73 years in 2017, 74.85 years in 2018, and peaked at 75.04 years in 2019.
• However, life expectancy sharply declined in 2020 to 73.04 years and further dropped to 72.15 years in 2021, likely due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• In 2022, life expectancy began to recover, reaching 73.75 years.
• These trends highlight both the long-term progress in improving health outcomes and the significant impact of health crises on regional longevity.

(Source: Statista)

Life Expectancy in Africa

Life Expectancy (From Birth) in Africa Statistics

• Between 1950 and 2020, life expectancy at birth in Africa showed significant improvements, nearly doubling over 70 years.
• In 1950, life expectancy was 37.49 years and rose to 40.04 years by 1955.
• It continued to increase steadily, reaching 42.45 years in 1960, 44.53 years in 1965, and 46.61 years in 1970.
• By 1975, life expectancy had risen to 48.82 years and surpassed 50 years for the first time in 1980, reaching 50.74 years.
• The upward trend continued into 1985 at 52.09 years.
• However, a slight decline occurred in 1990, when life expectancy dropped to 51.93 years, likely due to health crises affecting the continent.
• Recovery followed, with life expectancy reaching 52.33 years in 1995 and 53.53 years in 2000.
• By 2005, it had increased significantly to 56.78 years, followed by further improvements to 60.25 years in 2010, 62.66 years in 2015, and 64.11 years in 2020.
• These figures highlight the continent’s progress in improving healthcare and living conditions despite challenges such as disease outbreaks and socioeconomic constraints.

(Source: Statista)

Life Expectancy at Birth in Africa – By Country Statistics

• In 2023, life expectancy at birth across Africa showed significant variation between countries, reflecting disparities in healthcare, living standards, and socioeconomic conditions.
• Algeria recorded the highest life expectancy at 77.3 years, followed closely by Cabo Verde and Tunisia, both at 76.9 years, and Mauritius at 75.7 years. Morocco (75.2 years) and Seychelles (75 years) also ranked high.
• Libya followed with a life expectancy of 73.3 years, and Western Sahara reported 71.2 years. Egypt had a life expectancy of 70.8 years, while Senegal (69.3 years) and Sao Tome and Principe (68.9 years) also fared relatively well.
• Countries like Tanzania (67.6 years), Rwanda (67.4 years), Eritrea (67.3 years), and Ethiopia (66.6 years) followed, along with Madagascar (66.4 years), Gabon (66.2 years), Botswana (66.1 years), and Sudan (66.1 years).

More Insights

• Mauritania reported a life expectancy of 65.5 years, followed by Comoros at 65 years, Ghana at 64.5 years, and Gambia at 64.1 years. Uganda recorded 63.8 years, with Malawi and Djibouti both at 63.7 years. Kenya and Congo both reported 63.3 years, while Angola stood at 63.2 years and Zambia at 63 years.
• South Africa, Niger, and the overall African average were all at 62.9 years. Burundi followed with 62.5 years, and Mozambique recorded 62.4 years. Liberia and Equatorial Guinea both stood at 62 years.
• Several countries fell below this mark, including Zimbabwe and Cameroon (61.9 years), Togo (61.8 years), Sierra Leone (60.8 years), Guinea-Bissau, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Burkina Faso (all at 60.6 years), Benin (60.4 years), Cote d’Ivoire (60.1 years), and Mali (60 years).
• Guinea and Namibia reported 59.5 years, while Eswatini stood at 57.7 years and Somalia at 57.4 years. South Sudan followed with 56.5 years, the Central African Republic at 55.5 years, and Lesotho at 54.9 years.
• The lowest life expectancies were recorded in Nigeria at 53.9 years and Chad at 53.7 years. These figures highlight the need for continued efforts to address health and development challenges across the continent.

(Source: Statista)

Increase in Life Expectancy at Birth in Various Countries Statistics

• Between 1970 and 2019, life expectancy at birth increased significantly in many countries, with Turkey recording the largest improvement at 24.4 years.
• India followed with an increase of 22 years, while South Korea saw a gain of 21 years. Indonesia also experienced a substantial increase of 19.2 years, followed by Chile (18.3 years), Colombia (17.9 years), Brazil (17.1 years), and Portugal (16.9 years).
• Mexico reported a rise of 15.1 years, Costa Rica 14.2 years, and Luxembourg 14 years.
• Slovenia and Japan recorded increases of 13 years and 12.9 years, respectively, while Australia saw a gain of 12.4 years, Austria 12.2 years, and Spain 11.9 years. Italy and Ireland each reported an increase of 11.6 years, followed by South Africa with 11.5 years.
• Finland and the OECD38 average both recorded gains of 11.3 years, while Israel showed an increase of 11.1 years and Belgium 11 years.
• Switzerland, Germany, and France saw increases of 10.9 years, 10.8 years, and 10.7 years, respectively, while New Zealand gained 10.6 years.
• Czechia reported an increase of 9.7 years, followed by the United Kingdom with 9.5 years, and Iceland and Canada both at 9.2 years.
• Estonia and Norway saw increases of 8.8 years and 8.6 years, respectively, while the Netherlands reported an 8.5-year gain. Sweden (8.4 years), Denmark (8.2 years), Poland (8 years), and the United States (8 years) also showed improvements.
• Greece and the Slovak Republic reported gains of 7.9 years and 7.8 years, respectively, while Hungary saw a 7.2-year increase. Lithuania, Latvia, and Russia experienced smaller gains of 5.5 years, 5.4 years, and 4.9 years, respectively.
• These figures highlight significant global progress in healthcare and living conditions over the past five decades, with variations across regions.

(Source: Statista)

Factors Contributing to Declining Life Expectancy Statistics

• In 2017, various factors were identified as contributors to the declining life expectancy in the U.S., with drug and substance abuse being cited by 51% of respondents as the most significant issue.
• Physical inactivity was the second most common factor, noted by 43% of respondents, followed closely by limited access to healthcare, identified by 42%.
• A lack of effective treatments or cures for deadly diseases was mentioned by 31% of respondents, while 28% highlighted inadequate access to healthy food.
• Environmental health threats, such as air pollution and water quality issues, were recognized by 27%, and insufficient government funding for medical and health research was identified by 26%.
• Social determinants of health, including education and housing, were cited by 20% of respondents, while 13% pointed to a lack of incentives for private-sector research.
• Additionally, 11% of respondents were unsure about the causes, and 3% mentioned other factors.
• These findings underscore the multifaceted challenges contributing to declining life expectancy in the U.S. and the need for comprehensive interventions to address them.

(Source: Statista)

Initiatives to Increase Life Expectancy Statistics

• Globally, initiatives to increase life expectancy are yielding promising results, supported by various strategic actions and policy interventions across different nations.
• Advances in medical technology and healthcare, combined with public health initiatives focusing on healthier lifestyles and disease prevention, are contributing to increased life expectancies.
• For example, Japan’s robust healthcare systems and lifestyle interventions, such as promoting physical activity and dietary adjustments, are notable for their role in extending life spans​.
• In Switzerland and Singapore, comprehensive healthcare services ensure high life expectancies, demonstrating the effectiveness of accessible, high-quality medical care and preventive programs. These nations invest in healthcare infrastructure and public health policies, significantly improving overall health outcomes and increasing longevity​.
• Furthermore, global trends suggest a reduction in disparities in life expectancy across regions, with significant improvements anticipated in developing areas like sub-Saharan Africa.
• This change is partly due to policies that encourage healthier diets, increased physical activity, and reductions in smoking, which address major risk factors such as obesity and hypertension.
• Enhanced access to healthcare, including regular screenings and vaccinations, also plays a crucial role in managing health risks effectively​.
• Further, countries are also adapting to the demographic reality of aging populations by adjusting economic and social policies to support older people better, reflecting a global shift towards ensuring sustainable quality of life improvements for all age groups.​
• Moreover, this holistic approach, combining medical advancements with strategic public health interventions, portrays a future where increased life expectancy contributes to greater global health equity and prosperity.

(Sources: Infographic Website, Urban@UW)

Recent Developments

Market Insights and Trends:

• Global Life Expectancy Decline (2024): According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global life expectancy dropped by 0.5 years in 2023, marking a rare decline due to factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, increased global conflicts, and climate change. The average life expectancy now stands at 72.6 years globally, with disparities seen between regions.
• Life Expectancy in Developed Nations (2024): Life expectancy in developed countries like the U.S. has seen modest increases, reaching 79.1 years in 2023, driven by advancements in healthcare and improved chronic disease management. However, Japan maintains one of the highest life expectancies at 84.5 years in 2023.

Government Funding and Initiatives:

• U.S. National Institute on Aging (NIA) Funding (2024): The NIA allocated $3 billion in funding for research aimed at increasing human life expectancy and addressing aging-related diseases. This initiative focuses on groundbreaking treatments and technologies to extend healthy life years, particularly for older populations.
• European Commission’s Horizon Europe Funding (2024): The European Commission launched a new initiative under Horizon Europe, committing €500 million towards aging research and longevity studies to explore the effects of diet, exercise, and technology on life expectancy. The program aims to enhance life quality and health span for Europeans, particularly in the elderly population.

Technological and Healthcare Advancements:

• Artificial Intelligence and Aging Research (2024): In March 2024, MIT launched a partnership with biotech firms to develop AI-driven therapies that could extend human life expectancy by up to 10 years. Early trials suggest AI’s potential in predicting and mitigating aging-related diseases like Alzheimer’s and heart disease.
• Telemedicine’s Impact on Life Expectancy (2024): A study by Harvard University found that telemedicine services have reduced mortality rates by 10% in remote areas over the past 3 years. This is expected to continue, contributing to a slight increase in life expectancy, particularly for under-served populations.

Health and Lifestyle Influences:

• Impact of Diet and Exercise (2024): Research by Johns Hopkins University highlighted that individuals who maintained a healthy diet and regular physical activity saw a life expectancy increase of 5-7 years. This trend is expected to drive wellness-focused product innovations, including health-focused wearables and supplements.
• Mental Health’s Role in Life Expectancy (2024): Studies by the American Psychological Association indicate that improving mental health can extend life expectancy by up to 8 years. Increasing awareness of mental health is pushing the demand for new mental health apps, counseling services, and stress-reduction technologies.

Global Disparities and Regional Insights:

• Life Expectancy in Sub-Saharan Africa (2024): Life expectancy in Sub-Saharan Africa remains one of the lowest, with countries like Nigeria and Chad showing an average life expectancy of 55 years. However, initiatives such as improved healthcare access and vaccination programs are projected to increase life expectancy by 5-7 years by 2030.
• India’s Life Expectancy Growth (2024): India’s life expectancy has increased by 1.5 years in the past five years, reaching 70 years in 2024. The government’s push for better healthcare infrastructure, along with advancements in medical technology, is expected to continue driving growth in life expectancy.

Conclusion

Life Expectancy Statistics – Life expectancy has improved significantly worldwide, driven by advancements in healthcare, living standards, and socioeconomic progress.

Moreover, high-income and middle-income countries, like Turkey, India, and South Korea, have seen notable gains, while low-income regions, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, still face challenges due to limited healthcare and economic barriers.

Further, females continue to outlive males globally, reflecting a persistent gender gap. However, factors like pandemics, environmental issues, and substance abuse have caused setbacks in some regions, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Addressing these disparities requires investments in healthcare, disease prevention, and social equity to ensure continued progress and a higher quality of life for all.

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