Life Expectancy in Canada Falls for Third Consecutive Year: What’s Behind the Trend?

 According to a recent report by Statistics Canada, life expectancy for the average Canadian at birth has fallen for three straight years, from 82.3 years in 2019 to 81.3 in 2022. This is a concerning trend that has been attributed to a variety of factors, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the opioid crisis, and other health-related issues.

The drop in life expectancy is greater for men than for women, with men experiencing a decline of more than eight months compared to nearly five months for women . The opioid crisis is particularly affecting British Columbia and Ontario, which may be contributing to the decline in life expectancy.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on life expectancy in Canada. Preliminary data released by Statistics Canada shows that national life expectancy, which is estimated on an annual basis, was 81.7 years for those born in 2020, down from 82.3 the year before. The pandemic has led to increased mortality rates, particularly among older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

In conclusion, the decline in life expectancy in Canada is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address. Efforts to combat the opioid crisis, improve access to healthcare, and mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic are all necessary to help reverse this trend.