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Global life expectancy has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, 76.3 years for women and 71.5 for men, part of a 20-year gain since 1950, according to IHME analyses in The Lancet. Covid-19 fell from the leading cause of death in 2021 to 20th in 2023, while heart disease and stroke again lead as noncommunicable diseases drive about two-thirds of mortality. Inequities persist: life expectancy spans 83 in high-income regions to 62 in sub-Saharan Africa, and deaths are rising among adolescents and young adults. Researchers urge action on preventable risks and warn aid cuts could widen gaps.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.