Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is the Average Human Life Expectancy?
- Factors That Impact Human Life Expectancy
a. Genetics
b. Environment
c. Lifestyle - How to Increase Human Life Expectancy
a. Healthy Diet
b. Regular Exercise
c. Stress Management
d. Quality Sleep
e. Avoiding Risky Behaviors - Conclusion
Introduction
Humans have been trying to extend their lifespans since the dawn of time. But how long do humans actually live? The answer is not as straightforward as it may seem. Life expectancy varies from person to person and is impacted by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle. In this article, we’ll explore the average human life expectancy, the factors that impact it, and how to increase it.
What is the Average Human Life Expectancy?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the average global life expectancy for a person born in 2020 is 72.6 years. This number is slightly higher for women (73.8 years) than men (71.4 years). The life expectancy of a person born in the United States is slightly higher, with an average of 78.9 years.
Factors That Impact Human Life Expectancy
While the average life expectancy is a useful statistic, it doesn’t tell the whole story. There are a variety of factors that can impact a person’s life expectancy, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.
Genetics
Genetics play a major role in determining a person’s life expectancy. Studies have shown that people with certain genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or Down syndrome, have shorter life expectancies than those without these conditions. Additionally, some genetic factors, such as family history, can increase a person’s risk of developing certain diseases, which can also shorten their life expectancy.
Environment
The environment a person lives in can also have an impact on their life expectancy. People who live in areas with poor air quality, contaminated water, or inadequate healthcare may have shorter life expectancies than those who live in areas with better environmental conditions.
Lifestyle
Finally, lifestyle choices can also have an impact on life expectancy. People who smoke, drink heavily, or engage in other risky behaviors are more likely to have shorter life expectancies than those who do not. Additionally, people who do not get enough exercise or eat a healthy diet may also have shorter life expectancies.
How to Increase Human Life Expectancy
While genetics and environment can play a role in determining life expectancy, there are also steps that can be taken to increase it. Here are some tips for increasing life expectancy:
Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to increase life expectancy. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer, which can shorten life expectancy.
Regular Exercise
Regular physical activity can also help increase life expectancy. Exercise can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, as well as improve mental health and reduce stress.
Stress Management
Stress can have a negative impact on life expectancy, so it’s important to find ways to manage it. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can help reduce stress and improve overall health.
Quality Sleep
Getting enough quality sleep is also important for increasing life expectancy. Poor sleep can increase the risk of chronic diseases, so it’s important to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
Avoiding Risky Behaviors
Finally, avoiding risky behaviors, such as smoking, drinking heavily, and engaging in dangerous activities, can help increase life expectancy.
Conclusion
Humans have been trying to extend their lifespans since the dawn of time. The average global life expectancy for a person born in 2020 is 72.6 years, although this number can vary depending on a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to increase life expectancy, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, getting enough quality sleep, and avoiding risky behaviors.