UK life expectancy expected to rise to late 80s by 2030

Conclusion This analysis of population data provides some fascinating information about how life expectancy has changed over the past 30 years, and how it may change in the future. It found life expectancy for men and women will continue to rise. However, it also found the existing trends of the difference in life expectancy between different districts will continue to rise, which is of concern. Although the data shows more deprived areas have seen less of an improvement in life expectancy, the study cannot inform us what factors are responsible for the differences in life expectancy. There is one big limitation of any study that predicts life expectancy in the future: the figures are always based on trends from death rates in the past, and assume that past trends will continue into the future. These types of studies cannot account for unexpected events or major social changes that could have a huge effect on life expectancy. For example, they can't build into their models the potential for unlikely events such as a big natural disaster, changes within the healthcare system, or even a major health breakthrough, such as a cure for heart disease or cancer. It's worth remembering, too, that life expectancy figures represent the life expectancy of a baby born in that particular year. So the life expectancy figures for 2012 don't represent life expectancy for adults alive in 2012, but for babies born that year. This means the figures for 2030 don't yet apply: they are only pre...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Lifestyle/exercise Medical practice Older people Source Type: news