US life expectancy projected to rise slightly by 2050 but lags behind global peers

A new report forecasts that U.S. life expectancy will rise slightly from 78.3 years in 2022 to 80.4 years by 2050. However, this increase is minimal compared to other countries, with the U.S. expected to drop from 49th to 66th in global rankings. The report highlights rising obesity rates as a major health challenge, predicting over 260 million people will be affected by obesity by 2050. While some causes of death may decline, drug overdose rates are expected to remain high, with the U.S. projected to have the highest mortality rate from drug use disorders. Improvements in life expectancy could be greater if key health risks, such as obesity and drug use, are addressed. Eliminating risks in specific areas could potentially increase life expectancy by nearly four years, aligning it more closely with Canada’s projections.