Human life expectancy has declined - scientists name causes

Since 2011, the rate of growth in life expectancy in Europe has slowed. A study by the University of East Anglia cites poor diet, lack of physical activity, obesity, and the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic as causes. Scientists warn of the risk of earlier death despite medical advances.

According to a study by the University of East Anglia, the rate of growth in life expectancy in Europe has noticeably slowed since 2011. The main causes cited are poor diet, lack of physical activity, obesity, and the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Nick Steel from Norwich Medical School at UEA explained that from 1990 to 2011, Europe saw a steady decline in mortality from cardiovascular diseases, which contributed to an increase in average life expectancy. However, from 2011 to 2019, the pace of improvement slowed as risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, and high cholesterol either increased or stopped improving. The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in reducing life expectancy from 2019 to 2021. Of the 19 countries studied, England showed the greatest decline in life expectancy growth after 2011, while Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Denmark, and Belgium showed more positive results. Scientists emphasize that an increase in life expectancy is still possible, but this requires stricter government policies to combat obesity, poor diet, and low physical activity.