2 October 2026: New global health estimates show that life expectancy has returned close to pre-pandemic levels, while noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) continue to account for a growing share of deaths worldwide.

The latest estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) examine changes in life expectancy, causes of death and disease burden across countries and regions between 2000 and 2023.

Global life expectancy reached 73.3 years in 2023, nearly matching the 73.4 years recorded in 2019. However, healthy life expectancy has recovered more slowly, reaching 62.8 years in 2023, which remains 0.4 years below the pre-pandemic level.

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NCDs accounted for 74% of global deaths in 2023, compared with 58% in 2000. Eight of the 10 leading causes of death were NCDs, with cardiovascular diseases remaining the largest contributor to global mortality and disease burden.

“Living longer is one of the great achievements of public health,” said Dr Alain Labrique, Director of WHO’s Department of Data, Digital Health, Analytics and AI. “The next challenge is to ensure that those additional years are lived in good health, while health systems are equipped to respond to the changing needs of populations.”

Ischaemic heart disease caused an estimated 9.5 million deaths and 210 million disability-adjusted life years in 2023. Diabetes and dementia also contributed to the changing disease burden, with global dementia deaths tripling between 2000 and 2023.

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Mental health conditions are also placing a growing burden on populations. Between 2019 and 2023, age-standardized DALY rates increased by around 20% for depressive disorders and nearly 45% for anxiety disorders. The estimates highlight the need for health systems to adapt to longer lifespans and changing patterns of disease through stronger prevention, health data systems and targeted interventions.