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Spain now has the highest life expectancy in the EU
At 86.1 years, Madrid is almost five years above the European average
The latest life expectancy figures are in and Spain is celebrating a major milestone. According to data published last week by the European Union's statistical office Eurostat, as of 2023, Spain has taken the top spot in the EU for life expectancy, with Madrid leading the way at 86.1 years.
This impressive achievement is attributed in large part to Spain's strong healthcare system and commitment to wellbeing.
But Madrid isn't the only region in Spain that's thriving. Other areas, like Navarra and the Basque Country, are also boasting impressive life expectancy rates, with 85 and 84.7 years, respectively. And it's not just Spain that's seeing an increase in life expectancy - the EU as a whole has seen a rise of 0.8 years, with an average life expectancy of 81.4 years.
Right behind Madrid on the EU’s longevity list were Trento in Italy and Åland in Finland (85.1 years in both cases).
In contrast, the three European regions with the lowest life expectancy in 2023 were Severozapaden in Bulgaria (73.9 years), Észak-Magyarország in Hungary and Mayotte in France (74.9 years), ahead of two other Bulgarian regions: Yugoiztochen (75.1 years) and Severen Tsentralen (75.2 years).
So, what's behind this impressive trend? According to the regional government in Madrid, it's all down to the effective social and health policies that have been put in place. By investing in healthcare and social programs, Spain has created an environment that supports healthy living and promotes wellbeing.
In fact, Madrid has led this ranking since 2011, except for 2020 as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
When it comes to the gender gap, women are still outliving men by an average of 5.3 years. However, some countries, like the Netherlands, Sweden and Luxembourg, are narrowing the gap, with differences of just 3-3.3 years.
Image: Freepik
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