The latest figures from the Global Burden of Disease Study seemingly suggest that the average life expectancy of humans is increasing, with all of us gaining five more years by 2050.
Living a long life is easier said than done when you take into account everything from fitness to money, relationships to the food we eat. Everything affects our overall health, and thanks to the modern miracle of science, we are gradually understanding more and more about the human condition.
Life expectancy is gaining up to five years in the near future
As reported by the Global Burden of Disease Study, which was published today in the Lancet journal00685-8/fulltext#seccestitle250), both men and women are set for a life expectancy increase between now and 2050. For men, that’s an average of 4.9 years, while for women, it’s around 4.2 years.
This great news comes despite rising planet temperatures, several international wars, and the rise of domestic terrorism. Though such circumstances are undeniably horrific, it seems the human race is set to persevere.
“In addition to an increase in life expectancy overall, we have found that the disparity in life expectancy across geographies will lessen,” said Dr. Chris Murray, Chair of Health Metrics Sciences at the University of Washington. “This is an indicator that while health inequalities between the highest- and lowest-income regions will remain, the gaps are shrinking, with the biggest increases anticipated in sub-Saharan Africa.”
The expectancy according to where you live
Obviously, where you live has a massive impact on your average life expectancy, though researchers said the increase is more considerable in areas where the current expectancy is low.
Starting on the largest stage imaginable, the entire planet, the current average life expectancy is 76 for women and just 71 for men. By 2050, this increases to 80 for women and 76 for men.
In America, life expectancy for women is currently at 80 and is slated to hit 82 by 2050, while for men it’s said to jump from 75 to 78. Figures are similar in the UK where women are currently living to an average of 83. Over the next few decades, this number should jump to 85 for women and from 79 to 82 for men.
