Posted on 02/04/2014 9:20:49 AM PST by James C. Bennett
Americans are living longer, healthier lives—79.8 years on average—ranking 35th in the world in terms of life expectancy from birth. But where you live in the United States has a drastic impact on how far over or under the average your personal timeline will be. This illuminating map by the non-profit Measure of America shows how long you've likely got, and what country it's most similar to.
Hawaiians top the longevity list with an average age of 81.3 years—equal to Barbados but still lagging far behind Japan's average of 84 years—while Mississippi is dead last with a paltry average age of just 75 years, which is Syria-level expectancy.
There are a myriad of factors that impact one's lifespan—from environment, to diet, to healthcare access, to income, to demographics, and these figures only constitute a general trend for each state. Still, it's interesting to see that even as America sees itself as the world's hegemonic power cannot match the clean living habits of many European and Asian nations. [The Atlantic]
Image: Olga Khazan/measureofamerica.org L
“I’d like to see a map like that for 100 years ago.”
Here in Texas I once attended a class lecture on health issues and the instructor asked the class what they thought was the leading cause of death back in the 19th century. I immediately raised my hand.
Instructor: “Yes, you in the back, what do you think?”
Me: “Indians”
The class was in an uproar for the next five minutes.
I live in Indiana. If at age 90, I move to Florida and die, does Florida get credit for a 90 year old, or does Indiana.
It seems that data could be skewed towards states that draw retirees.
Somehow, I don’t think Syria has an average life expectancy of 75 anymore (Mississippi).
Left wing wacko states do better
What’s happening in Appalachia and the area on the gulf near the delta?
Heredity is an important factor, perhaps, as your doctor says, the most important in the case of cardiovascular disease. However, the disparity among the states and among different nations is a diet and lifestyle issue.
Wait till you get there, Scott. Your perspective will change. I'm 87, get around fine, live alone, drive with impunity (not slowness)and am enjoying life immensely.
And we hope to see you with us for many more years. Have a freind at 95 who still drags his golf clubs out and my great aunt could still do ten pushups at 95.
Ah, I see you must read enenews.com.
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