Economic factors and life expectancy in 136 countries during 2002 to 2010

This study was concerned with understanding the impacts of macroeconomic factors on the life expectancy in 136 countries for the period 2002–2010.
The determinants of life expectancy can be classified into economic social, and environmental factors. In this respect, the panel data method is employed to compute the relationship between life expectancy and selected economic, social and environmental factors. There exists no previous study that estimates empirically the determinants of life expectancy in these countries on the basis of panel data framework.
Empirical results suggested that unemployment and inflation as the main macroeconomic factors that affect life expectancy negatively whereas, the effects of gross national income and gross capital formation factors on life expectancy were positive. Also, the urbanity seems to be the main social cause for mortality.
The effects of economic factors as well as social and environmental factors on life expectancy are important. Therefore, these factors should be considered in health plans for improving longevity.