Widening Gap in Life Expectancy
New research reveals a troubling trend in the United States: life expectancy now varies by over 20 years based on race, ethnicity, and geographic location. Researchers describe this disparity as “truly alarming,” reflecting deep-rooted inequalities in health outcomes across the country.
The study, published in The Lancet, analyzed death records from the National Vital Statistics System and population estimates from the National Center for Health Statistics, spanning from 2000 to 2021. While disparities in life expectancy have always existed, the gap has grown significantly, particularly during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Alarming Disparities Amid U.S. Wealth
Senior author Christopher J.L. Murray emphasized the gravity of these disparities, noting that they are especially concerning in a country with the wealth and resources of the United States. “These disparities reflect the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities, leading to stark consequences for well-being and longevity, particularly among marginalized populations,” Murray stated.
In 2000, the life expectancy gap between the lowest and highest groups was 12.6 years. By 2021, this difference had widened to 20.4 years, with life expectancy at the low end averaging 63.6 years for American Indian or Alaska Native populations in the West, and 84 years for Asian Americans.
Growing Disparities Over Time
In 2000, the groups with the lowest life expectancy included Black Americans living in low-income, non-metropolitan counties in the South, as well as American Indian or Alaska Native individuals in the West. Asian Americans, on the other hand, had the highest life expectancy. Between 2000 and 2010, life expectancy generally improved for all groups, except for American Indian or Alaska Native individuals in the West, whose life expectancy declined by approximately one year.
However, by 2021, the gap between groups grew significantly wider. Asian Americans saw life expectancy average 84 years, while non-Hispanic Black Americans saw a sharp decline to 71 years, down from 74.8 years just two years earlier. The disparities in life expectancy were also affected by geographic location, with White Americans in low-income areas like Appalachia facing much lower life expectancy than those in wealthier regions.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The study underscores the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on historically marginalized populations, who experienced the highest mortality rates and the most significant reductions in life expectancy. These groups suffered the most during the pandemic, exacerbating existing health inequities.
Call for Action to Address Inequities
To address these widening disparities, Murray urges policymakers to invest in equitable healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. He stresses the importance of confronting systemic barriers to ensure that all Americans, regardless of race, ethnicity, or income, have the opportunity to live long and healthy lives.
