Life expectancy, which measures the average number of years a person is expected to live, varies widely across countries. This variation depends largely on factors such as healthcare quality, diet, lifestyle, and living conditions. Countries with strong healthcare systems, clean environments, and healthy lifestyles tend to enjoy higher life expectancy rates.
According to the latest data from the United Nations Population Division and compiled by Worldometer, Hong Kong currently leads the world with the highest life expectancy, averaging 85.77 years. Women in Hong Kong live around 88.39 years on average, while men live about 83.10 years. A key factor contributing to this is the active lifestyle of its residents, who typically walk nearly 7,000 steps daily. In addition, Hong Kong’s strict anti-smoking policies and efficient healthcare system help detect and treat diseases early.
Japan ranks second with an average life expectancy of 85 years. Japanese women often live beyond 88 years. Their traditional diet, rich in variety and fermented foods that promote gut health, plays an important role. Access to healthcare is universal, and many elderly people remain physically active well into old age, with some even living past 100 while maintaining an active lifestyle.
South Korea comes in third with an average life expectancy of 84.53 years. The country’s rapid economic growth has improved living standards and healthcare quality. A diet rich in kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish, and strong investment in medical technology have contributed to preventing and treating illnesses effectively.
French Polynesia ranks fourth, with a life expectancy of 84.31 years. The population benefits from a diet rich in fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Their culture promotes physical activity and strong community ties, providing emotional support and care, especially for older adults.
Switzerland follows closely with a life expectancy of 84.23 years. The country’s excellent healthcare system, clean environment, and high living standards contribute to its residents’ longevity. Outdoor activities and a stable economy also play a role in maintaining both physical and mental health.
Australia’s life expectancy is 84.21 years, supported by successful public health policies and a culture that encourages outdoor activities. The country has made significant progress in reducing smoking rates and managing health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Italy, with an average life expectancy of 84.03 years, benefits from the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. The country’s accessible healthcare system and strong family support networks also help people live longer, healthier lives.
Singapore’s average life expectancy is 84 years. The city-state is known for its efficient healthcare system and government initiatives promoting healthy living. Low infant mortality rates reflect the quality of healthcare available to the population.
Spain ranks ninth, with an average life expectancy of 83.96 years. The Mediterranean diet, robust healthcare system, and strong social connections contribute to the population’s longevity and well-being.
Réunion, a French overseas territory, rounds out the top ten with a life expectancy of 83.8 years. Residents benefit from access to French healthcare services, a diet blending local and French culinary traditions, and an active lifestyle supported by the island’s natural environment.
India’s life expectancy stands at 72.48 years, significantly lower than the global average of 73.4 years. Women in India live longer than men, averaging 74.13 years compared to 70.95 years for men. Improvements in healthcare and sanitation have contributed to this rise, but challenges such as high infant mortality rates and wide regional disparities persist. For example, life expectancy in Kerala reaches 78.26 years, while in Uttar Pradesh, it is only 69.77 years. These differences reflect inequalities in healthcare access, education, and economic conditions.
Overall, countries with high life expectancy tend to have effective healthcare systems, healthy diets, active lifestyles, and strong social support networks. These factors combined help people live longer, healthier lives, offering lessons for nations seeking to improve public health and longevity.
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