Humans are living nearly 20 years longer than they did in 1950, according to new research published in The Lancet. The study, led by the University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, found that global life expectancy reached 76.3 years for women and 71.5 for men in 2023 — returning to pre-pandemic levels.
The gains, however, aren’t evenly shared. While deaths from infectious diseases like measles and tuberculosis have dropped sharply, chronic illnesses now account for two-thirds of all global deaths. Heart disease and stroke remain the top killers, while diabetes, kidney disease, and Alzheimer’s are rising. Researchers say obesity, high blood sugar, and air pollution are driving nearly half of all preventable health problems worldwide.
The study also highlights a troubling trend among younger people. In wealthy countries like the U.S. and Canada, deaths among adults ages 20 to 39 are climbing due to suicide, overdoses, and alcohol-related causes. In parts of Africa and Eastern Europe, infections and injuries are taking a similar toll. Experts warn that without stronger investment in primary care, medicine, and vaccines, these health divides will continue to grow — despite global progress in longevity.
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