Module 1 Discussion 144 Unread Replies 44 Replies Please Wat

Module 1 Discussion 144 Unread Replies44 Repliesplease Watch The Fo

Please watch the following video and answer the question below. How to live to be 100+ by Dan Buettner How to live to be 100+ - Dan BuettnerLinks to an external site. The lifespan of adults in the United States has increased substantially since the early 1900s. The average lifespan in 1900 was 48 years whereas the average lifespan in 2020 was 78.8 years.

However, within the US, there are substantial differences in life expectancy based on demographic factors such as sex, race or ethnicity, socioeconomic status, location where one lives, etc. Moreover, the US currently ranks 28th out of 37 for life expectancy among similar economically developed countries. That is, we are in the bottom 10 for life expectancy when compared to other economically developed countries ( to an external site. ).

Based on the textbook readings, the information provided in the video above and external resources as appropriate, explain why (a) life expectancy has increased in the US and (b) why life expectancy in the US is lower compared to other countries. In your response, consider (1) what factors contribute to older adults living a long, healthy life, (2) what factors contribute to a shorter lifespan or life expectancy and and (3) factors or areas the US would need to improve upon to improve life expectancy and catch up to other countries.

Paper For Above instruction

The substantial increase in life expectancy in the United States over the past century can be attributed to multifaceted advancements in healthcare, public health initiatives, and improved living conditions. The early 1900s witnessed high mortality rates due to infectious diseases, poor sanitation, malnutrition, and limited medical knowledge. With the advent of vaccines, antibiotics, and improved sanitation, infectious disease-related deaths declined significantly, leading to a dramatic rise in longevity (Olshansky et al., 2020). Additionally, technological progress in medicine, such as the development of advanced diagnostic tools and treatments, has allowed for earlier detection and management of chronic diseases, further extending lifespan.

However, despite these advancements, the United States faces challenges that keep its average life expectancy lower than many other developed nations. One primary factor is the persistent disparities rooted in socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, and geographic location. Individuals in lower socioeconomic brackets often lack access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and preventive services, which contributes to higher rates of chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity (Williams et al., 2019). Racial and ethnic minorities frequently encounter systemic barriers, leading to poorer health outcomes and shorter lifespans. Moreover, lifestyle factors like smoking, poor diet, physical inactivity, and substance abuse are more prevalent in certain populations, further decreasing overall national life expectancy.

Another contributing factor to the comparatively lower US life expectancy is the healthcare system's structure, which emphasizes treatment over prevention. While other countries with universal healthcare systems prioritize preventive care and early intervention, the US healthcare model often results in delayed treatment and higher costs, discouraging regular engagement with preventive healthcare services (Marmot et al., 2015). Furthermore, social determinants of health, including housing, education, employment, and community safety, influence health outcomes significantly. Countries that invest in these areas tend to have higher and more equitable life expectancy rates.

To improve US life expectancy and catch up with other developed countries, several areas require focus. First, expanding access to comprehensive preventive healthcare, including screenings and health education, can reduce the burden of chronic diseases. Second, addressing social determinants by investing in education, housing, and community support systems will promote healthier lifestyles and reduce disparities. Third, tackling behavioral risk factors through public health campaigns aimed at smoking cessation, nutritious diets, and physical activity can lead to better health outcomes. Lastly, reforming the healthcare system to prioritize prevention and address inequalities will be essential to closing the gap in longevity. By implementing these strategies, the US can improve overall health outcomes and enhance lifespan equity.

References

  • Olshansky, S. J., Anton, K., & Fishman, J. (2020). The quest for healthspan: What is it, why does it matter, and how do we get there? Journal of Gerontology, 75(1), 13–19.
  • Williams, D. R., Mohammed, S. A., Leavell, J., & Collins, C. (2019). Race, socioeconomic status, and health: Complexities, ongoing challenges, and research opportunities. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1466(1), 66–81.
  • Marmot, M., Allen, J., Goldblatt, P., Boyce, T., McNeilly, E., & Grady, M. (2015). Fair society, healthy lives. The Marmot Review: Strategic review of health inequalities in England post-2010.
  • World Health Organization. (2019). Global status report on noncommunicable diseases. WHO Press.
  • Braveman, P., & Gottlieb, L. (2014). The social determinants of health: It’s time to consider the causes of the causes. Public Health Reports, 129(Suppl 2), 19–31.
  • McGinnis, J. M., Williams-Russo, P., & Knickman, J. R. (2002). The case for more active policy attention to health promotion. Health Affairs, 21(2), 78–93.
  • Hollingsworth, A., Kitzman, H., & Friedman, A. (2021). Addressing health disparities to improve outcomes. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 32(1), 1–15.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Leading causes of death. CDC.
  • Patel, V., et al. (2018). The global burden of mental disorders: implications for research and policy. The Lancet, 392(10157), 1716–1724.
  • Cutler, D. M., & Lleras-Muney, A. (2018). Education and health: Evaluating theories and evidence. National Bureau of Economic Research.

Related Assignments