Americans dying younger than their English-speaking peers worldwide
A study in BMJ Open shows Americans have the lowest life expectancy among high-income English-speaking countries, with preventable deaths and geographic disparities contributing to this issue, highlighting the need for public health reforms.
Read original article
A recent study published in BMJ Open reveals that Americans have the lowest life expectancy among six high-income English-speaking countries, including Canada, Ireland, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Conducted by Jessica Ho from Penn State, the research analyzed life expectancy trends from 1990 to 2019, highlighting that U.S. women live an average of 81.5 years and men 76.5 years, significantly lower than their Australian counterparts. The study attributes the shorter American lifespan to higher rates of preventable deaths among younger populations, including drug overdoses, car accidents, and homicides. Additionally, mid-life Americans face increased mortality from drug and alcohol-related issues and cardiovascular diseases. The research also uncovered significant geographic disparities within the U.S., with states like California and Hawaii showing life expectancies comparable to other developed nations, while southeastern states lag behind. The study suggests that factors such as gun violence, drug use, traffic safety, and healthcare accessibility contribute to these differences. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive public health strategies and policy changes to address these issues, drawing lessons from Australia’s successful health measures. The findings serve as a wake-up call for the U.S. to improve health outcomes and reduce inequalities in life expectancy.
- Americans have the shortest life expectancy among high-income English-speaking countries.
- Preventable causes of death significantly impact U.S. life expectancy, particularly among younger populations.
- Geographic disparities in life expectancy are pronounced within the U.S.
- The study highlights the importance of public health strategies and policy changes.
- Australia’s healthcare model offers potential lessons for improving U.S. health outcomes.
Related
America: A healthy or healthcare economy? The sickness at the heart of US GDP
The US economy heavily depends on healthcare, driving job growth and spending. Despite high healthcare expenditure, health outcomes lag behind. Inefficiencies like high costs and lack of universal coverage challenge resource allocation for better health.
U.S. maternal death rate increasing at an alarming rate
The U.S. maternal mortality rate has surged, not just due to older age, affecting all age groups. Factors driving this rise need identification, especially among younger adults. Cardiovascular diseases impact maternal health significantly. Disparities exist among racial groups, with Black individuals at higher risk. National efforts are urged to tackle maternal health crisis.
Cancer rates in millennials, Gen X-ers have risen starkly in recent years
Recent research shows rising cancer rates among millennials and Gen X, with 17 cancer types increasing. Obesity is a key factor, emphasizing the need for healthy lifestyles to reduce risks.
Overdose Deaths Are Finally Starting to Decline. Here's Why
Opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. have slightly declined but remain high, with regional differences and shifting demographics. Experts call for continued investment in treatment and prevention strategies.
Cancer Rates Are Rising in Young People
Cancer rates are rising among younger populations, especially millennials and Generation X, with colorectal cancer becoming a leading cause of death. Early screening and awareness of risk factors are essential.
15 commentsSeriously, what do you, the consumer, do with this?
Thanks in advance.
So I guess that's why Canadian doctors and nurses fled to the US, get rich and come back to enjoy. I plan to do the same if given the chance.
Two of these are not at all like the others. Compare the US and England maybe, large population, heterogeneous.
If English is important, then add India. More people speak English there than any of these countries.
Probably true in some cases. On the other hand, many of the food regulations in Europe are based off of little more than paranoid pseudoscience. For instance, nearly all irradiated foods are banned in Germany, with only dried herbs and spices exempted. There's no good reason for this.
To make the case that the EUs food regulations are the reason for the lifespan discrepancy you'd at least have to eliminate factors like access to healthcare, violent deaths, drug overdoses, etc.
Related
America: A healthy or healthcare economy? The sickness at the heart of US GDP
The US economy heavily depends on healthcare, driving job growth and spending. Despite high healthcare expenditure, health outcomes lag behind. Inefficiencies like high costs and lack of universal coverage challenge resource allocation for better health.
U.S. maternal death rate increasing at an alarming rate
The U.S. maternal mortality rate has surged, not just due to older age, affecting all age groups. Factors driving this rise need identification, especially among younger adults. Cardiovascular diseases impact maternal health significantly. Disparities exist among racial groups, with Black individuals at higher risk. National efforts are urged to tackle maternal health crisis.
Cancer rates in millennials, Gen X-ers have risen starkly in recent years
Recent research shows rising cancer rates among millennials and Gen X, with 17 cancer types increasing. Obesity is a key factor, emphasizing the need for healthy lifestyles to reduce risks.
Overdose Deaths Are Finally Starting to Decline. Here's Why
Opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. have slightly declined but remain high, with regional differences and shifting demographics. Experts call for continued investment in treatment and prevention strategies.
Cancer Rates Are Rising in Young People
Cancer rates are rising among younger populations, especially millennials and Generation X, with colorectal cancer becoming a leading cause of death. Early screening and awareness of risk factors are essential.