Introduction
Life expectancy at birth measures the average number of years a newborn is expected to live, assuming current mortality rates remain constant. This indicator reflects the combined impact of healthcare quality, disease prevention, and living conditions on population health.
Data come from the World Health Organization's Global Health Observatory, which compiles life expectancy statistics from national vital registration systems across WHO member states.
Overall Life Expectancy
In 2021, global life expectancy at birth reached 71.4 years (-1.1 y/y). This development suggests deteriorating population health outcomes.
Female Life Expectancy
In 2021, global female life expectancy at birth fell to 74 years (-1.2 y/y). This trend points to increased mortality risks affecting female populations.
Male Life Expectancy
In 2021, global male life expectancy at birth reached 68.9 years (-0.9 y/y). This development raises concerns about mortality trends among men.
FAQ
Global life expectancy is influenced by healthcare system quality, disease prevention programs, socioeconomic conditions, and lifestyle factors. Countries with universal healthcare coverage and lower rates of smoking typically show higher life expectancy. As of 2021, global average life expectancy stands at 71.4 years.
The gender gap results from biological, behavioral, and social factors. Men have higher rates of cardiovascular disease, engage in riskier behaviors, and are less likely to seek preventive healthcare. This gap has been narrowing as male health behaviors improve.
Life expectancy varies significantly across countries, reflecting differences in healthcare systems, economic conditions, and lifestyle factors. As of the latest available data:
- Switzerland: 83.3 years
- Spain: 82.7 years
- Italy: 82.2 years
- France: 81.9 years
- Germany: 80.5 years
- Poland: 75.4 years
- Romania: 72.8 years
Global life expectancy reflects the average across all countries worldwide. For comparison, life expectancy across regions stands at:
- Global average: 71.4 years
- Europe: 76.3 years
- Americas: 74.1 years
- Western Pacific: 77.4 years
- South-East Asia: 68.4 years
- Africa: 63.6 years
Life Expectancy in Other Countries
Compare global life expectancy results with individual countries and regions to explore broader health trends.
Methodology and Data Sources
All charts and indicators update automatically based on the World Health Organization's Global Health Observatory database, which compiles life expectancy data from national vital registration systems. Data are typically updated annually.