"Wealth and Longevity: Why America's Rich Die Younger Than Europe's Poor"

A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine by researchers from Brown University's School of Public Health has revealed a disturbing paradox: Americans—even the wealthiest—have lower survival rates than Europeans, regardless of income level .

The analysis, which examined data from over 73,000 adults between 2010 and 2022, compared mortality in the U.S. and 16 European countries. The results showed that although wealth is generally associated with greater life expectancy, this correlation is significantly stronger in Europe. Surprisingly, the richest Americans have survival rates comparable to the poorest Europeans.

This phenomenon can be attributed to multiple factors. In the U.S., economic inequality is more pronounced, resulting in significant disparities in access to quality healthcare, education, and healthy living conditions. Additionally, chronic stress, poor diet, gun violence, and a lack of social cohesion contribute to lower life expectancy .

In contrast, many European countries offer universal healthcare, more equitable social policies, and greater investment in the social determinants of health—such as education and community well-being. These structural differences allow even lower-income Europeans to enjoy longer lifespans than their wealthier American counterparts .

This study highlights that personal wealth does not guarantee a longer life if it is not supported by a social and political environment that promotes equity and collective well-being. Public health depends not only on individual financial resources but also on comprehensive policies that address inequality and foster healthy living conditions for all.

In conclusion, to improve life expectancy in the U.S., it is crucial to adopt strategies that reduce inequality and strengthen social support systems—taking cues from European policies that have proven more effective in promoting health and longevity.