Recent research findings have revealed that a higher level of education is associated with a reduced risk of premature death. This global study provides insights into the influence of education on individual lifespans. Let's delve into the significance of education and the need for societal investment based on these research findings.
Education Level and Premature Death Rate
It has long been known that individuals with higher education levels tend to live longer than those with lower education levels. However, this study was conducted to gain a more accurate understanding of the correlation between education level and actual mortality. Analyzing data from 59 countries, 70 regions, and 603 papers through meta-analysis, the results confirmed a quantitative relationship: higher education levels correspond to lower adult mortality rates.
Duration of Education and Decreased Risk of Death
For each additional year of education, the risk of death decreases by an average of 1.9%. Specifically, individuals who completed six years of elementary education had a 13.1% lower risk of death compared to those who had no formal education. Those with more than six years of secondary education experienced a 24.5% decrease, and individuals with 18 years of education had a 34.3% lower risk of death.
Furthermore, the effects varied with age. In the 18-49 age group, each additional year of education led to an average 2.9% decrease in the risk of death, while in those aged 70 and above, the risk decreased by 0.8%. These results suggest that education is effective in reducing mortality across all age groups.
Effects of Education and Societal Impact
The research findings highlight that the positive effects of education are independent of a country's level of development. Additionally, the impact of education on factors like dietary habits, alcohol consumption, smoking, and other health-related aspects is similar. Not attending school was found to be as detrimental to health as consuming more than five alcoholic drinks per day or smoking ten cigarettes daily for ten years.
Reducing Educational Disparities: Key to Decreasing Mortality Rates
The study results clearly demonstrate that reducing educational disparities is a key factor in decreasing mortality rate disparities. Breaking the cycle of poverty and preventable deaths through international cooperation and support is crucial. Moreover, education leads to better employment opportunities, higher incomes, and increased accessibility to healthcare services. To prevent persistent inequalities and provide opportunities for all, there is a need to increase societal investment in education.
These research findings underscore the positive impact of education on our health and lifespan, emphasizing the positive effects that investments in education can have on both individuals and society as a whole. To secure a healthier society in the future, expanding educational opportunities and enhancing the quality of education require increased efforts and investment.
