Have we peaked in life expectancy? Why some experts suspect younger generations could lead shorter lives
Rising sedentary behaviour around the globe, driven in part by the proliferation of screen-based entertainment devices, could result in a drop in overall health and life expectancy, some experts suggest.
For decades, Canadian life expectancy has been on an upward trajectory. But now, some longevity researchers are concerned we’ve already reached the peak.
Advances in medical knowledge and monitoring and improvements in our quality of life have contributed to years of steady gains in life expectancy. But as younger generations embrace more sedentary lifestyles, coupled with diets packed with ultraprocessed foods, it’s possible we could see our lifespans regress in the coming decades.
“I think there are several reasons why we could see a shortening lifespan within the next 20, 30, 40 years,” said Heather Keller, Schlegel Research Chair in Nutrition and Aging at the University of Waterloo. “Maybe we’re at the height now of longevity.”
It’s all speculation at this point, as we don’t yet have the health data for Canada’s younger generations. But some current trends may be cause for concern.
