American life expectancy is now at its lowest in nearly two decades
NPR Online NewsDec 22, 2022
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on Thursday that the US has reached its lowest life expectancy since 1996, with an increase in death rate of 5.3% between 2020 and 2021.
COVID-related deaths had the largest death rate increase, followed closely by accidental injuries, which include overdoses. Deaths caused by liver disease, kidney disease, strokes, and heart disease increased as well.
COVID, the leading cause of reduced life expectancy in the US, has brought devastation upon the nation and the entire world. Americans have sacrificed for over two years as they battle the global pandemic, and it's disheartening to see its effects. However, with advances in science and resilience, the country can reverse this trend.
Politicians may choose to focus on COVID deaths, but the real concern is the increase in deaths of despair like suicide and drug overdoses. In fact, botched COVID policies — and the widespread deterioration in mental health that ensued — are even largely to blame for exacerbating the issue. The nation's leaders can no longer afford to ignore the drugs, alcohol and suicide epidemic raging within the pandemic.