Life Expectancy Dips for Some in the US (broadcast Friday, May 2nd, 2008)

In aggregate, life expectancy in the US is improving. A new study finds that in some populations, however, life expectancy is on the decline. CDC/NCHS

Women living in the worst-off counties in the US have seen their average life expectancy decline in recent years, according to new work published in the Public Library of Science. Two years ago, Majid Ezzati and colleagues described life expectancy in the country as revealing 'eight Americas' defined by race, location, and income. Differences in the predicted life expectancy of the groups could be as much as 18 years. The new research shows that the gaps between the best-off and worst-off groups are widening, with declines in life expectancy among the worst-off populations connected to smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity. We'll talk with Ezzati about the work, and what is causing what the researchers call "increased inequalities in mortality in the United States." Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.