The United States is expected to fall behind other developed countries in terms of life expectancy and healthy life expectancy over the next few decades. According to a new study, Americans’ life expectancy is projected to increase to 79.9 years by 2035 and 80.4 years by 2050. However, this modest gain will lead to a decline in the nation’s global ranking from 49th in 2022 to 66th by 2050.
The study also found that female life expectancy in the US is forecasted to drop to 74th in 2050, while male life expectancy will decrease to 65th. The major drivers of poor health in America include obesity, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure.
If these risk factors were eliminated by 2050, researchers estimate that 12.4 million deaths could be averted. However, the rise in obesity and overweight rates is expected to continue, with over 260 million people affected by 2050.
The opioid epidemic has also had a significant impact on American health, with an 878% increase in death rate from drug use disorders between 1990 and 2021. This trend is expected to continue, with the US recording one of the highest drug-related mortality rates in the world.
To address these trends, researchers recommend expanding health care access as the most straightforward way to improve America’s standing. Universal health coverage would allow doctors to catch and treat disease more effectively, preventing illness, staying healthy, and protecting against financial hardship regardless of income.
Source: https://www.healthday.com/health-news/general-health/analysis-predicts-big-drop-for-us-in-global-health-rankings