Life expectancy is expected to grow worldwide — but not as much for people living in the United States compared to residents of Spain, according to a study published in The Lancet.
Using research from a 2016 study, the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors, scientists analyzed 250 causes of death to forecast a reasonable life expectancy for nearly 300 countries in the year 2040.
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The nations with the longest life expectancies include:
- Spain — average life expectancy: 85.8 years
- Japan — average life expectancy: 85.7 years
- Singapore — average life expectancy: 85.4 years
- Switzerland — average lifespan: 85.2 years
- Portugal — average lifespan: 84.5 years
Where does the United States come in?
Americans will only add about a year to their lives in 2040, bringing the average lifespan to 79.8. In 2016, Americans lived to roughly 78.7 years, on average. This drops our country’s rank to 64 from 43 in 2016.
Additionally, the team determined the top factors contributing to premature mortality: high blood pressure, body mass index and blood sugar as well as tobacco and alcohol use.
Of course, there is no way to ensure you lead a long life, but studies have identified five healthy habits that could help you live longer. As MensHealth.com previously reported, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, minimizing binge drinking and trading junk food for vegetables could add up to 12 years to your life.
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