Mayo Clinic research has revealed a concerning trend in global health, indicating that while people are living longer lives, these additional years are often plagued with disease and poor health. The study, conducted by Andre Terzic, M.D., Ph.D., and Armin Garmany, highlights a significant gap between lifespan and healthspan, with the latter not keeping pace with the former. Published in JAMA Network Open, the research sheds light on the need to address this growing disparity in order to improve the quality of longevity worldwide.
According to the study, life expectancy has seen a steady increase over the years, with women now living an average of 80.7 years and men 76.3 years. However, the concept of healthspan, which measures the number of years lived in good health, has not shown a corresponding improvement. In fact, the global gap between lifespan and healthspan was found to be 9.6 years in 2019, a 13% increase since 2000.
The United States stands out as having the highest average lifespan-health span divide, with Americans living an average of 12.4 years with disability and illness. Chronic diseases such as mental health disorders, substance use issues, and musculoskeletal conditions were identified as key contributors to this burden of illness in the country.
Furthermore, the study revealed a 25% gender disparity globally, with women experiencing a 2.4-year larger gap in lifespan versus healthspan compared to men. Neurological, musculoskeletal, urinary, and genital tract disorders were highlighted as significant contributors to extended years of poor health among women.
In light of these findings, the researchers emphasize the need for a shift towards proactive wellness-centric care systems to address the widening healthspan-lifespan gap. By identifying the unique contributors to this gap in each region, tailored healthcare interventions can be developed to improve health outcomes on a global scale.
The study, which analyzed data from the WHO Global Health Observatory, calculated the healthspan-lifespan gap for each member state by subtracting health-adjusted life expectancy from life expectancy. This comprehensive approach provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by different countries in achieving healthy longevity for their populations.
The research, published in JAMA Network Open, underscores the importance of closing the gap between lifespan and healthspan to ensure that people not only live longer lives but also enjoy good health and well-being during their extended years. By addressing the factors contributing to this disparity, healthcare systems can better support individuals in achieving a higher quality of life as they age.
