Understanding Life Expectancy

Life expectancy as commonly understood may be misleading. Here are key points to consider:

1. The Myth of Increased Lifespan

• Life expectancy statistics can create the illusion that the average lifespan has dramatically increased due to modern medicine.
• 100 years ago, if you lived past the age of 5, your remaining life span was approximately similar to today’s lifespan.

2. The Impact of Infant Mortality

• Life expectancy is an average and can be skewed by high infant mortality rates.
• Example: If one child dies before their first birthday and another lives to 70, their average life expectancy appears to be 35 years.
• 100 years ago, there were 157 infant deaths per 1,000 children; today, there are only 5.

3. Recognize the Real Changes

• The significant improvement is the reduction in infant mortality rather than an overall increase in lifespan.
• Accurately understanding these statistics helps to clarify the true contributions of modern medicine.

It’s essential to critically evaluate life expectancy statistics and understand what has genuinely impacted our health and longevity.