Australia has consistently maintained the highest life expectancy among English-speaking countries, outliving peers in the USA, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, and the UK by four to five years.

This advantage is attributed to successful public health policies and gun law reforms that have significantly reduced mortality rates from preventable causes.

A recent study published in BMJ Open, conducted by researchers from the University of Southern California and Pennsylvania State University, highlights Australia's top ranking in life expectancy among Anglophone nations.

In contrast, the U.S. faces high rates of drug and alcohol-related deaths, cardiovascular diseases, and unhealthy lifestyle choices, contributing to its lower life expectancy.

The study suggests that the U.S. could enhance its life expectancy by adopting similar health policies and reducing barriers to treatment for drug dependence.

Geographical inequalities in life expectancy are pronounced in the U.S., with states like California and Hawaii reporting higher rates compared to the Southeastern states.

As of 2019, American women had an average life expectancy of nearly 81.5 years, while men averaged almost 76.5 years, making them the lowest among the compared countries.

While Canada previously had the second highest life expectancy, recent data shows that Ireland and New Zealand have matched it, with the U.S. consistently ranking the lowest since 2001.

The study indicates that Australia has lower death rates from drug and alcohol misuse, screenable cancers, and cardiovascular and respiratory diseases compared to the USA and other Anglophone countries.

The research, led by Jessica Ho, emphasizes the need for the U.S. to invest in public health initiatives and infrastructure to improve its mortality rates.

To further reduce mortality rates, the study recommends investments in public transit and community health programs to promote healthier lifestyles and decrease traffic and drug-related deaths.