Why is Germany lagging behind in life expectancy compared to other Western European countries? This analysis compares mortality trends in Germany with those of other Western European nations between 1960 and 2019, using data from the Human Mortality Database and the World Health Organization. The findings reveal that Germany exhibits higher mortality rates in middle and older age groups, resulting in a growing life expectancy gap compared to the Western European average, mainly due to deaths from non-communicable diseases. The paper argues for a stronger focus on reducing mortality among individuals aged 50 and above, coupled with further research into the underlying causes of Germany's lower life expectancy. A better understanding of these factors may allow for more targeted outreach and improved engagement.
Published in _Plant and Soil_, this article deviates from the journal's typical scope. The study focuses on human mortality trends and public health, which is unrelated to plant science or soil science. This appears to be an error in the journal assignment based on the provided data.