# Eric Topol: global life expectancy up but healthspan gap widens; U.S. among largest morbidity gaps in Lancet Public Health data

_Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 8:00 AM EDT · Science · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

Eric Topol posted on X on July 21 that global life expectancy is increasing but the gap compared to healthspan is widening, with the United States showing the largest morbidity gap.

Topol cited a study published in The Lancet Public Health by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington. He said the findings indicate more sickspan, most seen in high-income countries.

The study suggests future gains in population health will come not only from helping people live longer but from helping them live healthier.

## Sources

- [EricTopol](https://x.com/EricTopol/status/2079708166238191743)

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