The probability of dying from chronic ailments, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, has decreased in the vast majority of countries. This was revealed by a study conducted by scientists, covering 185 nations and the period from 2010 to 2019. The findings were published in the journal Nature.
According to experts, mortality from non-communicable diseases among individuals under 80 years old declined in 152 countries for women and in 147 for men. The most significant progress was recorded in Denmark, where the reduction was the most substantial among developed nations. In contrast, the United States showed minimal improvement, while in India and Papua New Guinea, mortality from these diseases, on the contrary, increased. Russia also demonstrated a reduction in mortality rates over the past decade.
Scientists attribute these positive changes to the implementation of effective prevention and treatment strategies: widespread use of statins and blood pressure-lowering medications, mass vaccination against hepatitis and cervical cancer, and measures to reduce smoking and alcohol consumption.
However, the pace of this progress proved slower compared to the early 2000s. The study`s authors link this to insufficient funding for healthcare systems, limited access for the most vulnerable population groups, and a weakening focus on preventive measures. Furthermore, many regions observed an increase in mortality from dementia and Alzheimer`s disease, which negatively impacted the overall decline in rates.
Earlier, other researchers suggested that the significant increase in life expectancy observed in the first half of the 20th century is unlikely to be replicated in the future.
