Which are the top 10 countries with the highest life expectancy and what are they doing right?
2 min readAccording to the World Bank and World Health Organization data, as of 2021, the top 10 countries with the highest life expectancy are:
1. Hong Kong – 85.40 years
2. Japan – 85.30 years
3. Singapore – 85.20 years
4. Switzerland – 84.70 years
5. Spain – 84.70 years
6. Italy – 84.40 years
7. Australia – 84.4 years
8. Iceland – 84.3 years
9. Israel – 84.3 years
10. South Korea – 84.3 years
These countries have implemented various strategies and factors that contribute to their high life expectancy. Some of the key reasons for their success include:
1. Universal Healthcare: These countries have well-established and accessible healthcare systems that provide quality care to their citizens.
2. Health Education: They emphasize health education, promoting healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and regular screenings.
3. Strong Social Support: These countries prioritize social welfare and provide strong support systems for their citizens, reducing socioeconomic disparities and improving overall health outcomes.
4. Healthy Diets: Traditional diets in these countries often include fresh, unprocessed foods, vegetables, fruits, and seafood, contributing to better health outcomes.
5. Active Lifestyles: Regular physical activity is encouraged and easily accessible in these countries, leading to better cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
6. Effective Governance: Governments in these countries prioritize public health, implement effective policies, and ensure adequate funding for healthcare infrastructure.
7. Low Smoking Rates: These countries have managed to reduce tobacco use through strict regulations, awareness campaigns, and taxation policies.
8. Focus on Mental Health: Adequate mental health care and support services are available, reducing the burden of mental health issues on life expectancy.
9. Safety and Low Crime Rates: Safer environments promote better physical and mental well-being, contributing to longevity.
10. Strong Social Cohesion: Social cohesion, community engagement, and the elderly being valued and respected contribute to healthier and happier lives.
It’s important to note that these factors vary across countries, and the reasons for high life expectancy can be complex, involving a combination of cultural, social, economic, and political factors.