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Increase in life expectancy at birth in Japan: some implications for variable patterns of decrease in mortality
Health Policy
|February 1, 1987
Summary
Japan
Area of Science:
- Demography
- Public Health
- Gerontology
Background:
- Life expectancy at birth in Japan has increased rapidly.
- Understanding the drivers of this increase is crucial for public health policy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the factors contributing to the rise in life expectancy at birth in Japan.
- To compare Japan's demographic changes with other developed nations.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of life tables from developed countries with similar life expectancies.
- Comparison of age-specific probability of dying (ASPD) trends between Japan and other nations.
Main Results:
- A decline in ASPD across prime, middle, and older age groups significantly contributed to increased life expectancy.
- For males aged 50 and over, reduced mortality accounted for 35% of the life expectancy gains.
- Japan's rapid increase is linked to well-organized medical care and public services.
Conclusions:
- Declining mortality in older age groups is a key driver of Japan's extended life expectancy.
- Effective public health and medical systems play a vital role in longevity.
- Japan's experience offers insights into maximizing life expectancy gains through societal support.
Keywords:
Age FactorsAge Specific Death RateAsiaComparative StudiesDeath RateDelivery Of Health CareDemographic AnalysisDemographic FactorsDeveloped CountriesDeveloping CountriesEastern AsiaHealthHealth ServicesJapanLength Of LifeLife Expectancy--changesLife Table MethodLife TablesMortalityPopulationPopulation CharacteristicsPopulation DynamicsResearch Methodology
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