“`
Though the United States has seen robust economic growth in the initial decade of the 21st century, life expectancy rates surprisingly have not seen corresponding growth. Life expectancy is a significant indicator of the effectiveness of the public health system. Yet, research reveals that one’s birth zip code significantly affects life longevity, along with other social determinates.
From 1800 to 1990, vital improvements in longevity were credited to the elimination of extreme poverty, spurred by industrial revolution developments. Higher income allowed advancements in sanitation, availability of clean water, nutrition, and vaccine accessibility. Despite this, the average US life expectancy of 79.1 years remains below that of other affluent nations despite investing a doubly large amount in healthcare.
Impact of Social Determinates on Health
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines health as ‘a state of total physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely an absence of disease or infirmity.’ It points out various social determinates of health, including income and education levels, access to safe food and clean drinking water, pollution-free environment and proper sanitation facilities.
However, a study published in 2017 in the Journal of the American Medical Association indicated a startling 20-year gap in life expectancy between US counties with highest and lowest rates. Counties with short life expectancy were identified in North & South Dakota, eastern Kentucky, southwest West Virginia, and along the Mississippi.
Counties with lower life expectancy typically have higher rates of diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity. These lifestyle choices can be shaped by local facilities. Availability of fast food outlets over grocery store chains selling fresh vegetables and fruits, or lower tobacco taxes could greatly influence these habits.
Further, poor education systems, aging and impoverished populations, a higher percentage of black, brown, and indigenous populations, limited public transport, and restricted healthcare access liken to reduced life expectancy. Although all races in rural areas are impacted to various degrees, American Indian/Alaska Natives are most physically inactive, Hispanic individuals have the least healthcare coverage, and Non-Hispanic Whites have the highest rates of binge drinking, while Black individuals have the highest obesity rates.
Despite being aware of these health disparities for many years, the US has taken limited steps to tackle the root problems in the hardest-hit regions. As we proceed, it’s crucial to make immediate strides to alleviate these entrenched disparities and ensure health equity in all zip codes..
“`
