Japan’s average life expectancy has increased for the first time in three years, according to government data released on Friday. The rise is attributed to a significant decline in COVID-19 deaths compared to the previous year.
Japanese women now have an average life expectancy of 87.14 years, while men can expect to live to 81.09 years. Both figures represent a slight increase of 0.05 and 0.04 years respectively compared to 2022.
The past two years saw a decline in life expectancy due to the surge in COVID-19 fatalities. However, the number of coronavirus-related deaths dropped by approximately 10,000 in 2023, contributing to the improved figures.
While deaths from old age continue to rise, accounting for nearly 20% of female and 8% of male deaths, there has been a decrease in fatalities from diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Japan’s peak life expectancy was recorded in 2020, with women living an average of 87.71 years and men 81.56 years.
The data offers a glimmer of hope as the country grapples with an aging population.
