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A new study published in The Lancet Public Health has found that the rise in human life expectancy has significantly slowed across Europe since 2011. Researchers from the University of East Anglia and other institutions attribute this slowdown to factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, obesity, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
England Faces the Largest Slowdown
Among the countries studied, England experienced the most pronounced decline in life expectancy improvements. The findings suggest that instead of outliving previous generations, people today may face shorter lifespans if current health trends persist.
Lead researcher Professor Nick Steel, from UEA’s Norwich Medical School, explained, “Advances in public health and medicine in the 20th century led to continuous improvements in life expectancy. However, we have seen a significant slowdown since 2011.”
From 1990 to 2011, reductions in deaths from cardiovascular diseases and cancers were the primary drivers of increasing life expectancy. But from 2011 to 2019, improvements in longevity stagnated, with cardiovascular disease becoming the leading cause of slower life expectancy growth. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the decline between 2019 and 2021.
The Role of Obesity and Poor Diet
The study highlights that risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol either worsened or remained unchanged in most European countries after 2011. Although treatments for cholesterol and blood pressure have advanced, they have not been sufficient to counteract the negative impact of poor diets and obesity.
The research team analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study, which compiles extensive health loss data from over 160 countries. Their analysis compared changes in life expectancy, causes of death, and population exposure to risk factors across different periods from 1990 to 2021.
Policy and Public Health Initiatives
Despite the downturn, researchers maintain that humanity has not yet reached a biological limit for longevity. Professor Steel emphasized the importance of early intervention, stating, “Life expectancy reflects mortality at younger ages, where there is significant potential for reducing harmful risks and preventing early deaths.”
Comparing different countries, the study found that nations such as Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Denmark, and Belgium maintained stronger life expectancy rates post-2011 due to effective government policies. In contrast, England and other UK nations showed the steepest declines, with high rates of heart disease and cancer linked to poor diets and insufficient preventive measures.
Professor John Newton from the University of Exeter remarked, “While the results are concerning, they also provide hope. Addressing the root causes of major illnesses—obesity, diet, and physical inactivity—has been shown to be effective.”
The NHS Response
Sarah Price, NHS England’s National Director of Public Health, emphasized the need for a proactive approach. “This study reinforces the importance of prevention in public health. The NHS has already helped thousands through weight management programs and blood pressure screenings, but broader societal action is necessary. We cannot treat our way out of the obesity crisis—we must prevent it at its source.”
Conclusion
The study underscores the urgent need for stronger public health policies to address key risk factors affecting life expectancy. Researchers urge governments to implement comprehensive strategies to promote healthier lifestyles, thereby improving long-term population health.
Disclaimer: This article is based on research findings and does not constitute medical advice. For personal health concerns, readers should consult qualified healthcare professionals.
