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Life Grows Shorter for America's Poor

Smoking, obesity blamed for spread of 'death gap'

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Apr 22, 2008 10:40 AM CDT

(Newser) – Life is getting shorter for many of America's poorest people, USA Today reports. Life expectancy has risen in most of the nation since 1960 but in some areas—including the Deep South and Appalachia—life expectancy has dropped significantly, according to a study published in The Public Library of Science. Smoking and obesity were the among the main factors, and women were most affected.

"The worse off are getting worse," said the study's lead author. "There's more inequality."

Appalachia is among the areas of the US where many poorer counties have seen life expectancy drop over the last half-century.
Appalachia is among the areas of the US where many poorer counties have seen life expectancy drop over the last half-century.   ((c) ConspiracyofHappiness)
Research shows that the gap in life expectancy between poor Americans and rich Americans has risen in recent years.
Research shows that the gap in life expectancy between poor Americans and rich Americans has risen in recent years.   (Magnum Photos)
Experts say smoking is one of the main causes why life expectancy has shortened in some areas, especially among women.
Experts say smoking is one of the main causes why life expectancy has shortened in some areas, especially among women.   (AP Photo/Alexandre Meneghini)
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The study's findings in full
Public Library of Science

Life expectancy down in poor counties
Reuters

Women's life expectancy down for first time since 1918
Washington Post

'Death gap' expands
WebMD

 
obesity • health • smoking • life expectancy • poverty • inequality

 
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