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International mortality rates and life expectancy: selected countries.
Statistical Bulletin (Metropolitan Life Insurance Company : 1984)
|March 11, 1999
Summary
US mortality rates are decreasing but lag behind other developed nations. Significant improvements were seen in nonwhite populations, narrowing gender and racial gaps in life expectancy and mortality.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Demography
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The United States' overall mortality rate, while declining, remains unfavorable compared to many industrialized nations.
- International comparisons reveal disparities in age-adjusted mortality rates between genders and racial groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in U.S. mortality rates and life expectancy.
- To compare U.S. mortality and longevity data with 15 other developed countries.
- To examine changes in mortality rates among different demographic groups within the U.S.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of age-adjusted mortality rates for men and women across selected industrialized countries.
- Comparison of U.S. mortality data from 1990-1996 with international data from 1995.
- Examination of life expectancy trends for men and women from 1990-1995 and projections for 1995-2000.
Main Results:
- The U.S. age-adjusted mortality rate reached a record low in 1996, with greater decreases observed in nonwhite populations.
- The gender gap in mortality narrowed, as did racial differentials in U.S. life expectancy and mortality.
- Iceland and Japan reported the lowest age-adjusted mortality rates for men, while U.S. life expectancy ranked poorly internationally.
Conclusions:
- Despite improvements, U.S. longevity and mortality rates continue to lag behind many developed countries.
- Declining mortality rates and narrowing demographic differentials indicate positive shifts within the U.S. population.
- International comparisons highlight areas where the U.S. can improve public health outcomes and life expectancy.