Education is linked to a gain in longevity, according to a new analysis in The Lancet Public Health journal. The study found that completion of primary, secondary, and tertiary education can reduce the risk of death by 34 per cent compared to individuals without formal education. Every year spent in school or university improves life expectancy, with not attending school being as deadly as smoking or heavy drinking. The study also highlighted the multifaceted reasons for this, such as higher health literacy, healthier behaviors, stronger social connections, and greater access to healthcare resources provided in educational settings.
Dr. Kholoud Omar, a General Practitioner at Prime Medical Center, emphasized the importance of education in reducing mortality risk. Higher levels of education are associated with better health literacy, healthier behaviors, stronger social connections, and greater access to healthcare resources. However, it is important to note that correlation does not imply causation, and factors such as genetics, environment, lifestyle choices, and access to healthcare also play crucial roles in determining life expectancy.
Dr. Swetha Dilip, a General Practitioner in Dermatology at CosmeSurge Dubai, mentioned that higher levels of education can lead to better job opportunities, comprehensive health insurance, and a supportive work environment that promotes mental health and well-being. Educators also pointed out that education promotes critical thinking skills, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline and related health conditions as individuals age. The UN Sustainable Development Goals highlight the critical role of education in optimizing community health and well-being.
Dr. Suzanne Robertson-Malt, an Associate Professor at the University of Wollongong Dubai, emphasized the role of education in reducing the harmful effects of high-risk behaviors such as chronic smoking and alcohol consumption. The study serves as a reminder that attending school is key to ensuring everyone has the chance to live a long and healthy life. Research has shown that for every year of extra schooling, the risk of dying from negative health effects decreases, particularly for younger adults. The study findings indicate the significant impact of education on reducing mortality and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Ranju Anand, Senior Vice President of Education at GEMS Education, highlighted previous research showing that higher levels of education are associated with longer life expectancy. Various studies have demonstrated that each additional year of schooling increases life expectancy by approximately 1.7 years. This relationship holds true across different populations and regions, underscoring the universal benefits of education on longevity. Dr. Rania Zaarour, an Associate Professor and Researcher at Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, emphasized the importance of education in promoting healthier behaviors and better outcomes in managing chronic diseases. Policymakers are urged to recognize the complex relationship between education and health and implement laws and policies that promote education while ensuring a healthy and safe environment for the population.
