Life expectancy in the U.S. is falling, while the number of overdoses increases

Life expectancy in the U.S. is falling, while the number of overdoses increases

In 2016, the average life expectancy of Americans has declined, as in 2015, and decreased to 78.6 years. Moreover, experts report that this trend is partly related to the epidemic of overdoses.

The team of the National center for health statistics (NCHS) found that the average life expectancy in the US fell by 0.1% in comparison with the previous year.

Life expectancy in the U.S. is falling, while the number of overdoses increases

«For the first time, the average life expectancy in the U.S. is declining for two consecutive years after the final fall in 1962 and 1963,» reads the statement NCHS.

According to the center, in 2016 increased the number of dead: more than 2.7 million people – is 31618 deaths than in 2015.

Usually the average life expectancy is falling, when people begin to die at a younger age. This is what the experts associated with the epidemic of overdoses of opioids.

NCHS found that 63 600 people died from a drug overdose in 2016, while «the majority of overdose deaths were unintentional».

According to the group, and in 2014 the death rate from drug overdose is increasing annually by 18%. The experts record a significant increase in mortality from synthetic opioids, including fentanyl and tramadol.

Indicators of States falling behind other world powers. The average life expectancy in the US is much less than in the UK, France and Greece. Among all States in the world are Iceland, Switzerland and Japan have the longest life expectancy, and South Africa – the lowest.

Life expectancy in the U.S. is falling, while the number of overdoses increases

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