Overview

• A study published in *The New England Journal of Medicine* found that Americans, regardless of wealth level, have higher mortality rates than Europeans.
• The wealthiest Americans have life expectancies comparable to or lower than the poorest individuals in countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands.
• Europe’s comprehensive social safety nets and structural advantages contribute to longer life expectancy and lower mortality rates compared to the U.S.
• Key systemic issues in the U.S., such as economic inequality, stress, poor nutrition, and environmental risks, are driving the disparities.
• Researchers emphasize the need for U.S. policymakers to address structural inequalities beyond healthcare spending to improve national health outcomes.