Global Health Gap Grows as Lifespans Extend

A Global Burden of Disease study in The Lancet Public Health finds people are living longer but spending more years in poor health, widening the global morbidity gap to 10.7 years in 2023 (14.5% of life). High-income countries such as the US, Australia, and Canada have the largest gaps; musculoskeletal disorders and mental health issues account for over half of unhealthy years. Experts call for a shift toward proactive wellness, prevention, and long-term care to improve healthspan rather than just lifespan.