In the United States, premature mortality is on the rise, particularly among Black adults, according to a new study led by researchers at Brown University and Harvard University.
The study authors define premature deaths as those occurring before age 65, which is when adults in the United States are eligible for Medicare. According to the study, mortality among Americans ages 18 to 64 has increased significantly in recent years, rising 27.2 percent from 243 deaths per 100,000 in 2012 to 309 deaths in 2022. This upward trend means a growing number of Americans are passing away before they can benefit from the Medicare system they have contributed to over the course of their lifetime.
Among Black Americans, the trend is even more troubling. Premature mortality in 2012 was 309 and 247 deaths per 100,000 for Black and White adults, respectively. By 2022, these figures rose to 427 and 316 deaths per 100,000. This finding held true in all U.S. states, except for New Mexico, Rhode Island, and Utah.
Based on their findings, the authors suggest policymakers should reconsider Medicare eligibility and health financing options for populations with differing life expectancies. Additionally, they call for more investment in access to private insurance, as well as factors connected to long-term health, including affordable housing, education, and income security.
