WHO: Life expectancy extended in Türkiye to 78.6 years

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a report stating that the average life expectancy in Turkey has risen to 78.6 years. This marks a significant increase from previous years. The report revealed that women in Turkey have a life expectancy of 81.3 years, while men have a life expectancy of 75.9 years.

According to Tufan Nayir, a public health specialist from the WHO Turkey Country Office, this increase can be attributed to several factors that have contributed to the overall improvement of health in Turkey. These include healthcare reforms that have brought about greater access to quality care, improved environmental conditions that have reduced the prevalence of diseases caused by pollution, and enhanced health literacy that has led to greater awareness and adoption of healthy lifestyle practices.

Significant investments in healthcare sector

Nayir further explains that the Turkish government has made significant investments in the healthcare sector in recent years, which have resulted in the establishment of more hospitals and clinics across the country. This has made it easier for people living in remote areas to access healthcare services, which has contributed to the overall improvement of health in the country.

Overall, the increase in life expectancy in Turkey is a testament to the efforts made by the government and healthcare professionals to improve the health and wellbeing of the population.

How is it calculated and what has helped the increase?

Life expectancy at birth is a statistical measure that indicates the average number of years a newborn can expect to live, considering the current mortality risks. In Türkiye, the life expectancy has been on the rise and has reached an impressive 78.6 years.

The variation in life expectancy across countries is influenced by multiple factors such as the structure of health services, dietary habits, environmental conditions, living standards, and air quality. When compared to other countries in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the European Union, Türkiye's life expectancy is on par, with the average life expectancy hovering around 80 years.

Europe in comparison

Spain and Italy are the two countries in Europe where people tend to live the longest after birth. This demographic change is causing a shift in population pyramids, as there is an increase in the proportion of elderly people. As life expectancy increases, the health needs of the ageing population also grow. Therefore, health services are adapting to these changing requirements.

Nayir believes that it's crucial to promote healthy ageing and ensure that individuals live a high-quality life during their post-retirement years. However, he has also pointed out that the number of non-communicable diseases has been increasing, negatively impacting healthy ageing. Mental disorders such as anxiety and depression have joined the ranks of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases as the fifth chronic condition.