Belize's Life Expectancy Story

The average life expectancy in Belize varies depending on the source and year. As of 2024, the current life expectancy for Belize is 75.24 years, according to one source. Another source states that in 2022, the total life expectancy at birth in Belize was around 70.96 years. Belize's life expectancy has been improving over the past few decades, increasing from an average of 71.1 years in 1990 to 74.7 years in 2018, according to one source. The life expectancy for males and females also varies, with females having a higher average of 76.3 years compared to males at 73.1 years in 2018.

Life expectancy at birth in Belize is 70.96 years

Belize has made significant progress in reducing the burden of infectious diseases, which has contributed to its ageing population. In 1980, 4.5% of the population was aged 65 or older, and this is expected to rise to 16.8% by 2060. Despite this progress, Belize continues to face challenges such as poverty and gang violence, which impact health and life expectancy.

As of 2018, the average life expectancy in Belize was 74.7 years, with females having a higher average of 76.3 years compared to males at 73.1 years. Belize's life expectancy ranking is 122nd globally, and it has been improving over the past few decades, increasing from an average of 71.1 years in 1990.

The leading causes of death in Belize include cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, which account for about 40% of annual deaths. Injuries and external causes contribute to about 28% of annual deaths, while communicable diseases such as HIV make up 20%.

Belize's male life expectancy is lower than the global average

Belize's high homicide rate, particularly in Belize City, is a significant contributor to the lower life expectancy for males. The country consistently ranks in the top 10 for homicides worldwide, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. This high rate of violent crime specifically affects men, contributing to their lower life expectancy compared to women.

Gang violence is also prevalent in Belize, particularly in urban areas such as Belize City. This often leads to homicide, which is one of the leading causes of death among males. Additionally, HIV and road traffic incidents are significant factors in the lower life expectancy for males in Belize.

While Belize has made improvements in healthcare and sanitation, with 99.5% of the population having access to a water source and 90.5% having access to sanitation facilities, the effects of poverty are still prevalent. Approximately 41% of the total population lives below the poverty line, and this can negatively impact health outcomes and life expectancy, especially for men.

Furthermore, Belize is susceptible to natural disasters such as hurricanes and coastal flooding, which can lead to a lack of access to clean water and sanitary conditions. This, in turn, can contribute to the spread of waterborne illnesses or infectious diseases, particularly affecting children and vulnerable populations. Despite recent improvements in life expectancy, the challenges posed by poverty, violence, and natural disasters continue to impact the health and well-being of Belize's population, particularly males.

Belize's homicide rate is high, especially in Belize City

Belize has a high homicide rate, especially in Belize City. In 2023, there were 21.5 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants, down from 25 in 2022. In 2021, the homicide rate was 31.25, a 20.98% increase from 2020. While the rate has been declining over the past decade, it is still higher than the regional average of 18.3 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants.

Gang violence is a significant contributor to the high homicide rate in Belize, particularly in Belize City. Homicide is one of the leading causes of death among males, along with HIV and road traffic incidents. The country's high homicide rate specifically affects male life expectancy, which is lower than female life expectancy. As of 2022, the average life expectancy in Belize is 74.95 years, with females having a higher average of 74.68 years compared to males at 67.72 years.

To address the issue of gang violence and homicide, Belize has implemented various initiatives and programs. The World Bank Group, for example, has created an objective to improve youth employability and inclusion, specifically targeting at-risk youth males who are susceptible to street violence and crime. The program aims to provide young people with the skills and motivation needed to find and maintain employment.

Additionally, the Belize Health Structure Strategic plan was created in 2014 to improve the country's health sector by developing a Primary Health Care-based system through integrated health service delivery networks. This initiative aims to positively impact the health of the population and create more sustainable outcomes.

While Belize continues to struggle with gang violence and homicide, especially in Belize City, the government and various organizations are taking significant steps to address these issues and improve the safety and well-being of its citizens.

41% of Belize's population lives below the poverty line

Belize is a small country in Central America with a population of around 385,854 to 405,000 people. It is the only English-speaking country in Central America and has a diverse range of ethnic backgrounds. The country's economy is largely driven by tourism, with its beautiful islands and crystal-clear waters attracting visitors all year round. Despite this, Belize struggles with widespread poverty, with 41% of its population living below the poverty line. This includes almost half of all children in Belize, who are less likely to escape poverty due to their dependence on others for survival.

Poverty in Belize is closely linked to health outcomes and life expectancy. As of 2024, the average life expectancy in Belize is 75.24 years, with women having a higher life expectancy of 74.68 years compared to 67.72 years for men. The country's high homicide rate, particularly in Belize City, significantly impacts male life expectancy, as homicide is a leading cause of death among males. Additionally, Belize has a high rate of cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, which contribute to annual deaths.

The indigenous population in Belize is also disproportionately affected by poverty. 50% of indigenous children under the age of five suffer from stunting, compared to 18% in the general population. Belize's high access to clean water (99.5%) and sanitation facilities (90.5%) has likely contributed to improved health and life expectancy. However, the country's susceptibility to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and coastal flooding, can lead to difficulties in accessing clean water and increase the risk of waterborne illnesses, particularly in children.

Despite the challenges posed by poverty, Belize has made significant strides in improving health and reducing poverty. The Belize Health Structure Strategic Plan, created in 2014, aims to develop a primary healthcare-based system and improve health outcomes. Additionally, the World Bank Group has initiatives to enhance youth employability and inclusion, especially for at-risk youth males who are vulnerable to street violence and crime. These efforts are crucial for Belize's growth and development in the coming years.

Belize's population is ageing

The average life expectancy in Belize has been increasing over the past few decades. In 2024, the current life expectancy is 75.24 years, a 0.2% increase from 2023. In 2022, the life expectancy was 74.95 years, a 0.19% increase from 2021. In 2018, the average life expectancy was 74.7 years, up from 71.1 years in 1990.

Belize has a relatively young population, but it is ageing, and the pace of this ageing is predicted to increase. The country's high homicide rate, particularly affecting men, has impacted life expectancy. Belize is consistently ranked in the top 10 for homicides globally, with gang violence prevalent in Belize City. Homicide is one of the leading causes of death among males, along with HIV and road traffic accidents.

The indigenous population in Belize is also significantly impacted by poverty. While 41% of the total population lives below the poverty line, this figure rises to 50% for indigenous children under five, who suffer from stunting. Despite these challenges, Belize has made significant strides in improving health and well-being, with various initiatives and programs aimed at enhancing the health sector and reducing the major causes of death.

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