By Sama Marwan,
France boasts a higher life expectancy and healthy life expectancy compared to the United Kingdom and the United States. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), France’s healthy life expectancy (HALE) is 72.1 years, indicating that individuals can expect to live over 72 years in good health.
In contrast, the United States has experienced a decline in life expectancy in recent years. In 2022, U.S. life expectancy at birth was 77.5 years, which is lower than that of many comparable countries.
The United Kingdom has also faced challenges in improving life expectancy. While specific HALE figures for the UK are not provided in the available data, studies have highlighted significant health inequalities within the country, affecting overall life expectancy.
Several factors contribute to France’s superior health outcomes:
- Healthcare System: France’s universal healthcare system provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring access to medical services for all citizens.
- Diet and Lifestyle: The traditional French diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and moderate wine consumption, along with a culture that encourages regular physical activity, promotes better health.
- Social Support: Strong family ties and social networks in France contribute to mental well-being and overall health.
In contrast, the United States faces challenges such as higher rates of obesity, limited access to healthcare for certain populations, and socioeconomic disparities that negatively impact life expectancy. The United Kingdom contends with health inequalities and lifestyle-related health issues that affect its population’s longevity.
It’s important to note that while France leads in these metrics, the rise in human life expectancy has slowed in wealthy countries over the past 30 years. A study published in Nature Aging indicates that while populations gained up to three years per decade in the 20th century, the increase has now reduced to an average of 6.5 years over 30 years.
