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February 22, 2025
Improvements in human life expectancy throughout Europe have slowed significantly since 2011, with England experiencing the largest slowdown, according to a new study. The research, led by the University of East Anglia (UEA), identifies poor diets, physical inactivity, obesity, and the COVID-19 pandemic as major factors contributing to this shift.
A Concerning Trend in Life Expectancy
Experts warn that instead of continuing to live longer than previous generations, many people now face the possibility of earlier mortality.
“Advances in public health and medicine in the 20th century meant that life expectancy in Europe improved year after year. But this is no longer the case,” said Professor Nick Steel from UEA’s Norwich Medical School.
From 1990 to 2011, lower death rates from cardiovascular diseases and cancers steadily increased average life expectancy across the continent. However, between 2011 and 2019, progress stagnated as major risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol either increased or stopped improving in most European nations.
“We found that deaths from cardiovascular diseases were the primary driver of the reduction in life expectancy improvements between 2011 and 2019. Unsurprisingly, the COVID-19 pandemic was responsible for the declines in life expectancy observed between 2019 and 2021,” explained Steel.
Government Policies and Health Risks
The study found that among 19 European countries, England showed the sharpest reduction in life expectancy growth following 2011. Other UK nations followed similar trends, while some countries, such as Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Denmark, and Belgium, demonstrated better resilience due to stronger policies targeting health risks and effective management of cardiovascular threats.
“England and other UK nations fared the worst after 2011 and also during the COVID-19 pandemic, experiencing some of the highest risks for heart disease and cancer, largely due to poor diets,” Steel added.
Experts suggest that stronger government policies are essential to combat major health risks, including obesity, poor diet, and low physical activity.
Can Life Expectancy Still Improve?
Despite these concerning trends, the study emphasizes that increased longevity is still achievable. “Life expectancy for older individuals in many countries is still improving, showing that we have not yet reached a natural longevity ceiling,” Steel explained.
By focusing on preventing early deaths, particularly among younger adults, there is significant potential to reduce mortality rates.
John Newton, a scientist at the European Center for Environment and Human Health at the University of Exeter, acknowledged both the challenges and opportunities ahead. “These results are a cause for concern, especially in the UK, but there is also hope. Addressing the root causes of major illnesses has proven effective, provided that improvements in key risk factors can be sustained.”
Urgent Need for Action
Sarah Price, National Director of Public Health at NHS England, emphasized the need for stronger measures to address cardiovascular disease and cancer at their sources.
“The slowdown in life expectancy improvements, particularly due to cardiovascular disease and cancer, highlights the urgent need for stronger action on the root causes—poor diet, physical inactivity, and obesity,” Price said.
While the NHS offers weight management programs and widespread blood pressure screenings, Price stressed that government intervention is crucial in tackling the broader societal drivers of obesity and unhealthy lifestyles. “We cannot treat our way out of the obesity crisis; we need to address it at its source,” she added.
Reversing the Trend
The study concludes that while Europe once enjoyed steady life expectancy gains, those improvements have now stalled due to unhealthy diets, lack of exercise, and the pandemic’s impact. Researchers suggest that reversing this trend requires decisive actions, including promoting healthier lifestyles and implementing better policy frameworks.
A coordinated public health response prioritizing dietary improvements, increased physical activity, and obesity reduction may help restore life expectancy growth. Otherwise, younger generations in Europe risk facing shorter lifespans than their predecessors.
The study is published in The Lancet Public Health.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a scientific study and is intended for informational purposes only. The findings and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Readers should consult healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice.
