Life expectancy for Americans rose for the first time in four years according to the most recent data released by the Centers for Disease Control. The data, which is as of 2018, shows the first slight increase since 2014.
The life expectancy average at birth for male and females is 78.7 years, with women expecting to live to the age of 81.2 and men to 76.2. The Centers for Disease Controls noted that the slight increase was attributable to lower mortality from cancer, accidents, and unintentional injuries. Drug overdose deaths among younger individuals also declined, falling 4% in 2018, the first such decline in 28 years.
Historically, the current life expectancy of reaching 78.7 years of age was absolutely unheard of 100 years ago. Life expectancy for males and females in 1920 was 54 years of age, 24 years less than today’s life expectancy. Advancement in medical technology and more favorable work conditions has gradually led to higher life expectancy in the United States.
Source: Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics
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