US States with Worst Life Expectancies

Map shows U.S. disparities in U.S. life expectancy. © seamartini/Getty

America has the lowest life expectancy of all English-speaking countries, new research has found. However, this varies significantly across the nation, with some states seeing much lower life expectancies than others.

“It’s well-known that American life expectancy performs very poorly compared to other high-income countries,” Jessica Ho, associate professor of sociology and demography at Penn State and senior author on the new paper, told Newsweek via email.

“[However,] – compared to this subset of countries with shared characteristics, the U.S. has very low life expectancy, which is quite alarming.” In their study, published in the peer-reviewed journal BMJ Open earlier this month, Ho and colleagues compared life expectancy data from the Human Mortality Database (HMD) and also World Health Organization (WHO) Mortality Database between 1990 and 2018 for the United States, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

Not only did the U.S. come bottom in terms of life expectancy, but it also showed significant geographical variations, indicating stark inequalities between regions.

“Looking within the United States, there are long standing disparities between regions, with parts of the West and Northeast performing very well and the South and Appalachia typically lagging behind,” Ho said.

One potential reason for this could be the divergence in urban and rural life expectancies seen across the U.S. since the 1990s.

Yes, recent studies have highlighted that U.S. women have a lower life expectancy compared to women in other high-income countries. On average, American women live to be about 80 years old, whereas women in countries like Japan and South Korea live to be around 87 years old 1.

Several factors contribute to this disparity, including differences in healthcare access and affordability 1. Additionally, the overall life expectancy in the U.S. has been declining, with significant impacts from COVID-19 and drug overdoses 2.

Learn more: 1abc7.com 2time.com 3jamanetwork.com 4smithsonianmag.com

U.S. women face several health challenges, some of which are more prevalent compared to other high-income countries.

Here are a few key issues:

Heart Disease: The leading cause of death among women in the U.S. is heart disease. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking.
Cancer: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, followed by lung and colorectal cancers. Regular screenings and early detection are crucial.
Mental Health: Conditions such as depression and anxiety are common. Women are more likely to experience these issues due to a combination of biological, hormonal, and social factors.
Reproductive Health: Issues like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and complications during pregnancy can significantly impact women’s health.
Obesity: A significant number of women in the U.S. are affected by obesity, which can lead to other health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
Chronic Diseases: Conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and osteoporosis are prevalent and can affect quality of life.
Access to Healthcare: Despite being a high-income country, many women in the U.S. face barriers to accessing affordable and comprehensive healthcare.

Addressing these challenges involves a combination of preventive care, regular screenings, healthy lifestyle choices, and improved access to healthcare services.

There are several preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of breast cancer:

Limit Alcohol Consumption: It’s best to avoid alcohol or drink in moderation, as alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer 1.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause, can increase the risk of breast cancer 1 2.
Stay Physically Active: Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and can lower the risk of breast cancer 1 2.
Breastfeed: Breastfeeding, if possible, can reduce the risk of breast cancer 1.
Limit Hormone Therapy: Postmenopausal hormone therapy can increase the risk of breast cancer. If hormone therapy is necessary, it’s best to use the lowest dose that works for the shortest time possible 1.
Healthy Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in processed foods and sugars, can help maintain overall health and potentially reduce cancer risk 3.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking is linked to many types of cancer, including breast cancer. Quitting smoking can improve overall health and reduce cancer risk 1.
Regular Screenings: Regular mammograms and self-examinations can help detect breast cancer early when it is most treatable 4.

Implementing these lifestyle changes can significantly contribute to lowering the risk of breast cancer. Are there any genetic factors that increase breast cancer risk?

Yes, there are several genetic factors that can increase the risk of breast cancer:

BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes: Mutations in these genes significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Women with these mutations have a higher lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.
Family History: Having a close relative (mother, sister, or daughter) with breast cancer can increase your risk, especially if they were diagnosed at a young age.
Other Genetic Mutations: Mutations in other genes, such as TP53, PTEN, and PALB2, can also increase breast cancer risk, though they are less common than BRCA mutations.
Hereditary Cancer Syndromes: Conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, and hereditary diffuse gastric cancer can increase the risk of breast cancer due to associated genetic mutations.
Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as Ashkenazi Jewish women, have a higher prevalence of BRCA mutations, which increases their risk of breast cancer.

If you have a family history of breast cancer or are concerned about your genetic risk, it might be helpful to speak with a genetic counselor. They can provide personalized risk assessments and discuss potential preventive measures, such as increased surveillance or preventive surgeries.

Getting tested for BRCA mutations involves a few steps:

Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: Start by discussing your family history and concerns with your doctor. They can refer you to a genetic counselor.
Genetic Counseling: A genetic counselor will assess your risk based on your family history and discuss the benefits, risks, and limitations of genetic testing.
Sample Collection: If you decide to proceed, a sample of your blood or saliva will be collected for testing 1 2.
Laboratory Analysis: The sample is sent to a specialized lab where it is analyzed for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations 1 2.
Results and Follow-Up: Once the results are ready, your genetic counselor or healthcare provider will explain what they mean and discuss any next steps, which may include increased surveillance or preventive measures 2.

If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask!

Oncology: Genetic testing informs breast cancer care (invitae.com)

“Over the past three decades, large central cities and their suburbs have experienced strong gains in life expectancy, while medium/small cities and particularly non metros have much lower life expectancy levels and experienced small or no gains in life expectancy,” Ho said.

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Factors that may contribute to these disparities include differences in health behaviors like smoking, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and illicit drug use and alcohol abuse, according to Ho.

“Patterns of selective migration where the healthiest and best off tend to move to cities and coastal states, leaving behind the less healthy and less well-off; and differences in distance to hospitals and access to care,” she said. The state with the best health care in America—and the state with the worst, based on data (msn.com)

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Ho added: “The South and the Midwest, which contain a large portion of our rural population, tend to have more lax gun laws and also happen to have higher rates of gun-related fatalities.”

With this in mind, taking the data from 2018, the following five states experienced the lowest life expectancies:

West Virginia—74.5
Mississippi—74.6
Alabama—75.1
Kentucky—75.3
Tennessee—75.6

At the other end of the spectrum, these five states saw the highest average life expectancy for that same year >>> Liberal States Tend to be More Healthy – Search (bing.com)

Hawaii—81
California—80.8
Minnesota—80.5
New York—80.5
Connecticut—80.4

In order to improve these inequalities, and America’s lagging life expectancy more broadly, the U.S. needs to address these avoidable deaths, especially among its younger citizens.

The 10 states with the best health care in America—and the 10 worst, according to data. “These include policies that would improve access to treatment for drug addiction and overdose, reduce road traffic fatalities and invest in public transportation, decrease gun deaths, and reduce cardiovascular disease,” Ho said.

Eliminating smoking disparities in Tobacco Nation

Smoking prevalence is nearly 50% higher in a group of Midwestern and Southern states compared to the rest of the country, according to Truth Initiative’s latest analysis of U.S. states with the highest smoking prevalence.

In these 12 states – a region we call “Tobacco Nation” that spans Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and West Virginia – both adults (19.2% vs. 13%) and young adults (11.2% vs. 7.6%) have 50% higher smoking prevalence and smoke many more cigarettes per capita annually than people living in other states (on average, 53 vs. 29 packs). That means a smoker living in Tobacco Nation could smoke nearly 500 more cigarettes per year than the average smoker in the rest of the U.S.

This group of states is home to about 21% of the US population but 28% of smokers in the country. Overall, smoking prevalence is about 50% higher there than in the rest of the US. About 19% of adults smoke in this group of states, compared with about 13% of adults in other states.

A similar pattern holds among young adults. About 11% of adults under 25 in these states smoke, compared with less than 8% in other states. Teenagers in these states are also more likely to smoke.

Smoking prevalence has been consistently higher than average among these 12 states since Truth Initiative’s first report on the topic five years ago.

According to Truth Initiative, much of the disparity can be attributed to weaker local policy on tobacco prevention and cessation, particularly due to industry influence and lack of political will from decision-makers. For example, federal data shows that the share of adults who smoke fell to a historic low in 2022, but e-cigarettes grew in popularity.

To battle this trend, hundreds of local governments have enacted laws that restrict the sale of flavored tobacco – but only three of them have been within the 12 states with higher smoking prevalence.

The latest report from Truth Initiative, published last week, also shows that people in these 12 states who smoke tend to do so significantly more than smokers in other states.

Health effects of tobacco – Wikipedia

An average smoker in “Tobacco Nation” goes through about 53 packs in one year, compared with an average of 29 packs in the rest of the US, a difference of about 500 cigarettes per person each year.

This persistently high prevalence of cigarette use – still the country’s leading cause of preventable death and disease – has serious consequences, especially at a time when life expectancy has declined for Americans due to a variety of factors including COVID-19 and opioid overdoses. Tobacco Nation residents live shorter lives and face a higher risk of dying than other Americans, with an average life expectancy of 76 years compared to 79 yearsin the rest of the country. Tobacco Nation’s greater rates of smoking-attributable death and disease compared to the rest of the U.S. likely contribute to this lower life expectancy.

Yet it is possible to create a future where these geographic disparities also do not exist. According to a separate analysis by Truth Initiative^® and HealthPartners Institute, more tobacco policy spending paired with higher cigarette taxes that are targeted to areas with the highest smoking prevalence can reduce disparities in tobacco use that have existed for decades, bringing adult smoking in Tobacco Nation down to the national average and resulting in considerable health and economic benefits.

Specifically, the analysis predicts that implementation of key tobacco policy changes could lead to roughly 100,000 fewer cancer cases, 730,000 fewer hospitalizations, and 170,000 fewer deaths attributed to smoking in the first two decades following policy change as well as saving over $24 billion in smoking-attributable medical costs and increasing productivity by over $100 billion.

Tobacco Facts. Health Effects of Smoking and Tobacco Products.

Researchers and policymakers have created a road map to end unequal smoking prevalence across the country. Why, then, has it been such a challenge to implement these policies? Disparities in tobacco prevention and cessation measures in Tobacco Nation are not the fault of the region’s residents. Residents of Tobacco Nation have historically supported policies at levels equal to their counterparts in states outside Tobacco Nation.

Instead, strong tobacco policies have not gained traction due to a combination of factors, including lack of political will, powerful tobacco industry interference in legislation, and prevention of local jurisdictions from adopting strong tobacco prevention and cessation measures.

These obstacles have become evident in recent years as strong local laws restricting the sale of flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes and youth-appealing flavored e-cigarettes, have continued to gain momentum across the country, but very few have been implemented in Tobacco Nation. For example, only three out of nearly 400 flavored tobacco policies in the U.S. have been enacted in Tobacco Nation.

The research points to a clear need for action: without interventions, adult smoking prevalence in Tobacco Nation states is forecasted to be over 40% higher on average over the next 20 years compared to other U.S. states. Steps taken at the federal level – including the Food and Drug Administration’s proposed rules to remove menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars from the market – will likely have large impacts in Tobacco Nation states, but need time to take effect.

In the meantime, local and state level protections – including prioritizing tobacco program spending in existing budgets, higher tobacco excise taxes on tobacco products, stronger local tobacco policies supporting smoke-free environments, and restrictions on the sale of flavored tobacco products – are needed to address long-existing inequities in smoking rates and health outcomes in our country.

More tobacco policy spending paired with higher cigarette taxes targeted to areas with the highest smoking prevalence can reduce disparities in tobacco use that have existed for decades, bringing adult smoking in Tobacco Nation down to the national average and resulting in considerable health and economic benefits.

AN UPDATE ON TOBACCO NATION TODAY

Tobacco use has significantly declined in the United States, with high school student smoking prevalence dropping from 28% in 2000 to 2% in 2022. Much of this decline is attributed to tobacco policy efforts, including price increases, smoke-free air laws, and youth access restrictions, as well as mass media public education and prevention campaigns.

Reductions in tobacco use have not occurred equally across U.S. populations & there are substantial geographic and sociodemographic disparities in tobacco use and associated health outcomes. New issues with uneven implementation of local flavored tobacco policies threaten to exacerbate the situation further.

Welcome to “Cancer Alley,” – Search (bing.com)

“Cancer Alley” is an 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans in Louisiana. This area is heavily industrialized, with over 200 petrochemical plants and refineries 1 2. The region is notorious for its high levels of air and water pollution, which have been linked to elevated cancer rates among its residents 3 4.

The term “Cancer Alley” highlights the severe health impacts and environmental racism faced by the predominantly Black communities living there4 5. Efforts are ongoing to address these issues, but the challenges remain significant.

Agricultural workers face unique cancer risks due to their exposure to various carcinogens, including pesticides and prolonged sun exposure. Here are some key findings:

These findings highlight the importance of protective measures and regular health screenings for agricultural workers to mitigate these risks.

Learn more: 1bmccancer.biomedcentral.com 2farmworkerjustice.org

3agweb.com 4publichealthpost.org 6PMC (nih.gov) 7PubMed (nih.gov)

When a city dweller moves to an agricultural area, their body indeed needs to acclimate to the new environment. This process involves several adjustments:

Physical Activity: Agricultural work often requires more physical labor compared to urban jobs. This can lead to increased muscle use and overall physical fitness, but it may also cause initial fatigue and soreness.
Exposure to Elements: Being outdoors more frequently means greater exposure to sunlight, varying weather conditions, and possibly allergens like pollen. This can affect skin health, hydration levels, and respiratory systems.
Dietary Changes: Access to fresh, locally grown produce can lead to dietary changes. This might improve nutrition but can also require the digestive system to adjust to new types of food.
Mental Adjustment: The slower pace and different social dynamics of rural life can impact mental health. Some people may find it relaxing, while others might initially feel isolated.
Immune System: Increased exposure to soil, plants, and animals can strengthen the immune system over time, but it might also lead to initial bouts of illness as the body adapts.

These changes can be beneficial in the long run, promoting a healthier lifestyle and closer connection to nature¹ ².

Learn more: 1farmlike.io 2agritecture.com 3citiesandglobalization.org

Yes, I’ve moved from the city to a rural area.
No, but I’m curious about the differences in lifestyle.
Tell me more about acclimating to agricultural life.

Sure! Acclimating to agricultural life involves several aspects, both physical and mental. Here are some additional details:

Physical Adjustments

Increased Physical Activity: Agricultural work often involves tasks like planting, harvesting, and tending to animals, which can be physically demanding. Building stamina and strength gradually is important to avoid injury.
Exposure to Nature: Spending more time outdoors means dealing with sun exposure, rain, and varying temperatures. Wearing appropriate clothing, using sunscreen, and staying hydrated are crucial.
Dietary Changes: Access to fresh produce can lead to a healthier diet, but it might also mean adjusting to new foods and cooking methods. This can improve overall nutrition and well-being.

Environmental Factors

Allergens and Pests: Rural areas may have higher levels of pollen, dust, and insects. It’s important to be prepared for potential allergies and to use protective measures like insect repellent.
Water and Soil Quality: Understanding the quality of local water and soil is essential for both personal health and successful farming. Testing and treating water.

Mental and Social Adjustments

Community Integration: Building relationships with neighbors and participating in local events can help ease the transition. Rural communities often have strong social networks that can provide support.
Pace of Life: The slower pace of rural life can be a significant change. Finding new hobbies, enjoying nature, and embracing the tranquility can enhance mental well-being.
Self-Sufficiency: Agricultural life often requires a higher degree of self-sufficiency. Learning skills like gardening, animal care, and basic repairs can be empowering and rewarding.

Health and Safety

Healthcare Access: Some Rural areas might have limited access to healthcare facilities. It’s important to know the location of the nearest clinic or hospital and to have a well-stocked first aid kit.
Safety Precautions: Working with machinery, animals, and chemicals requires knowledge of safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries.

Emotional Resilience

Adaptability: Also being open to change and willing to learn new skills is key. Agricultural life can be unpredictable, and flexibility is important.
Stress Management: Finding ways to manage stress, whether through hobbies, exercise, or social connections, can help maintain mental health.

Transitioning to agricultural life can be a fulfilling and enriching experience, offering a closer connection to nature and a sense of accomplishment from growing your own food.

Abandon Industrial Plants can be fascinating and eerie places to explore. They often tell stories of a bygone era of manufacturing and industrial might. Here are a few notable examples:

These sites often attract urban explorers and photographers who are drawn to their decaying beauty and historical significance. Have you ever visited any abandoned places?

References

Wilkie, R. Z., & Ho, J. Y. (2024). Life expectancy and geographic variation in mortality: observational comparison study of six high-income Anglophone countries. BMJ Open, 14(9), e079365. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2023-079365

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