Fact Check: The average lifespan of a human is approximately 72 years globally.

Fact Check: "The average lifespan of a human is approximately 72 years globally."

What We Know

The claim that the average lifespan of a human is approximately 72 years globally has some basis in recent data. According to the World Health Organization, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, global life expectancy at birth increased from 66.8 years in 2000 to 73.1 years in 2019. However, the pandemic significantly impacted these figures. By 2020, global life expectancy had decreased to 72.5 years, and further declined to 71.4 years in 2021, which reflects a rollback to levels seen in 2012.

Additionally, a 2023 report from the World Population Review indicates that the global average life expectancy is currently estimated at 73.4 years, which aligns closely with the claim. This figure varies significantly by region, with some areas experiencing much lower life expectancies due to various factors such as healthcare access and socioeconomic conditions.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim is derived from reputable sources, including the World Health Organization and the World Population Review. These organizations are generally considered reliable as they compile and analyze health data from various countries and provide updates based on comprehensive research methodologies.

However, the claim's accuracy is nuanced. The average lifespan can fluctuate based on recent events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused significant reductions in life expectancy globally. The WHO noted that the pandemic reversed nearly a decade of progress in life expectancy, indicating that while the average might hover around 72 years, it is subject to change based on health crises and other factors.

Furthermore, the term "average lifespan" can be misleading. Life expectancy at birth is influenced heavily by infant mortality rates, which can skew the average lower in regions with high infant deaths. Therefore, while the global average life expectancy might be around 72 years, this figure does not reflect the lifespan of individuals who survive past early childhood, which is typically higher.

Conclusion

The claim that "the average lifespan of a human is approximately 72 years globally" is Partially True. While it is supported by credible data indicating an average life expectancy around this figure, it is essential to consider the context of recent declines due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the variability of life expectancy across different regions. The average can fluctuate and does not account for the complexities of demographic factors affecting life expectancy.