South Korean Women May Live Longer than 90 on Average
Imperial College London and the World Health Organization analyzed the average lifespans in 35 industrialized countries; their research was then published in The Lancet. Their analysis predicted that people would be living longer by 2030. Moreover, they conclude that the lifespan disparity between men and women will decrease in most countries.
Out of all the countries studied, South Korea stood out the most. The study projects women in South Korea will be the first to live longer than an average of 90. Using a mathematical model blending 21 forecasts, the study suggests that women born in 2030 have a 57% chance of meeting the +90 longevity mark.
Compared to other industrialized countries, South Korea women generally smoke less, weigh less, and have lower blood pressure. Additionally, they tend to visit the doctor more because most have health insurance. “South Korea has gotten a lot of things right,” Professor Majid Ezzati told the BBC News website. “They seem to have been a more equal place and things that have benefited people – education, nutrition – have benefited most people. And so far, they are better at dealing with hypertension and have some of the lowest obesity rates in the world.”
United States Falls Far behind South Korea
As countries continue to move forward in terms of life expectancy, the U.S. falls far behind. American men and women are in 23rd and 27th place, respectively. By 2030, the U.S. is on course to having the lowest life expectancy among wealthy countries. With a predicted average age of 80 for men and 83 for women, the U.S. will rank alongside Mexico and Croatia.
Whereas South Korean citizens has one of the lowest obesity rates in the world, the U.S. has an obesity epidemic. Moreover, unlike South Korea and other industrialized countries in Eastern Europe, the U.S. places little focus on preventative care. There’s also a relatively high mortality rate among babies of uninsured mothers, as well as a high death rate among men from gunshot wounds and car accidents.
“[United States is] almost opposite of South Korea,” added Prof Ezzati. “[Society in the US is] very unequal to an extent the whole national performance is affected – it is the only country without universal health insurance.” Interestingly, the U.S. is the first country to stop growing taller. This fact may be indicative of early life nutrition, says Ezzati.
Ultimately, the increase in life expectancy stems from the improvements in healthcare for those over 65 in many of the countries studied. Prof Ezzati said, “Places that perform well do so by investing in their health system and making sure it reaches everyone.” If healthcare is the solution to longevity, then the current healthcare crisis in America does not bode well of U.S. citizens.
Health Insurance
First and foremost, health and longevity is connected to political events. Take Eastern Europe for instance. Their progress followed the collapse of the Soviet Union. Africa is another example. When introduced to antibiotics, Africa’s health rose but then plummeted with the spread of AIDS. As donors pay for AIDS drugs, the life expectancy in Africa is once again rising.
With the influence of political events in mind, it’s important to note that America’s current healthcare crisis will significantly impact health overall. The Trump administration’s decision regarding the status of Obamacare may ultimately affect the long-term health of American citizens.
Because the current political climate regarding healthcare is confusing and complicated, help is needed. Reach out to a licensed agent today. Not only can an agent keep you informed, they can also help you find a health insurance plan that fits your needs.
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