Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Study shows stagnating life expectancies in US

A new study by Rice University and the University of Colorado at Boulder found that US life expectancy has stagnated over the past century, with the poorest citizens living approximately five years less than more affluent persons. The study also found that despite moderate gains in coming years, the US still trails its developed counte...

SourceRice University·JournalSocial Science Quarterly·DateJun 21, 2012

Exercise and a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables extends life expectancy in women in their 70s

Women who exercise regularly and eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables have a significantly longer life expectancy than those who don't. The study found that the most physically active and fruit/vegetable-consumption groups were eight times more likely to survive a five-year period, with death rates being up to 71% lower.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMay 30, 2012

Prostate cancer treatment overused in some older patients

Research at Yale University reveals that prostate cancer treatment is often not necessary for older men with short life expectancy. The study found that cancer treatment became more common among men with moderate-risk tumors and shorter life expectancies, despite being unlikely to benefit from it.

SourceYale University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2012

Even mild cognitive impairment appears to substantially increase risk for death

A long-term study found that even mild cognitive impairment substantially increases the risk of death, with a strong impact comparable to other chronic diseases. The study, which followed nearly 4,000 patients over 13 years, suggests that recognition of cognitive impairment in primary care practices should be given higher priority.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 5, 2011

Why does Japan have the highest life expectancy?

Rapid declines in infectious disease and stroke mortality enabled by salt reduction campaigns, improved healthcare technologies, and universal health insurance coverage have contributed to Japan's exceptional longevity. The country faces new challenges due to an aging population and rising healthcare costs.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 30, 2011

Life expectancy success story

Researchers found that life expectancy in deprived areas of Brazil increased at three times the rate of more affluent areas, narrowing the gap to 4.2 years by 2005. This decline in social inequalities in life expectancy corresponds to a significant increase in life expectancy between deprived and affluent areas.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInternational Journal for Equity in Health·DateAug 25, 2011

Just 15 minutes of physical activity per day reduces risk of death by 14 percent and increases life expectancy by 3 years

A study published in The Lancet found that just 15 minutes of daily physical activity can reduce the risk of death by 14% and increase life expectancy by 3 years. This benefit applies to all age groups and both sexes, with a significant reduction in mortality rates from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 15, 2011

Life expectancy in most US counties falls behind world's healthiest nations

A new study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation finds that most US counties are falling behind the world's healthiest nations in terms of life expectancy. The study found significant disparities in life expectancy across the US, with women living longer than men in some areas but facing worse outcomes in others.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalPopulation Health Metrics·DateJun 15, 2011

The way forward

Brazil's unique national health service has improved health outcomes, but socioeconomic disparities and regional inequalities remain. The authors emphasize the need for coordinated action among government, private sector, academia, and civil society to address these challenges and secure universal access to healthcare.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 9, 2011

Despite highest health spending, Americans' life expectancy falls behind other countries'

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that the US life expectancy has fallen behind other countries despite high health spending. The researchers attribute this failure to flaws in the overall healthcare system, including unregulated fee-for-service payments and reliance on specialty care.

Obesity will snuff out health benefits gained by smoking declines

A study by University of Michigan and Harvard researchers found that despite declines in smoking rates, the US population is experiencing a rise in obesity, which is overtaking the health benefits gained from quitting smoking. The study suggests that if current trends continue, nearly half of the population will be obese by 2020.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 2, 2009