Death from Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease between Two Brazils

Introduction

Population aging has been represented as one of the main global trends in future prospects, and Brazil is increasingly becoming established within this scenario. While life expectancy is estimated to be over 83 years in countries like Japan, Switzerland, and Spain, in others such as Nigeria and Somalia individuals reach an average age of 55. In 2018, life expectancy was estimated at 71 years in Brazil. The relationship between health and development is quite complex, and it presents countless interactions. Both life expectancy and main causes of death appear as indicators of a region or a country’s quality of life. They are signs of lifestyle (and advice regarding adequate change), preventative healthcare services provided to the community and advances in diagnostic techniques. Health conditions are influenced by the socio-economic environment, given that higher indicators of income and educational level manifest as adoption of healthier lifestyle habits and, naturally, access to more effective treatment.

In the past, communicable diseases represented the leading cause of death. In low-income countries, 52% of deaths were caused by communicable diseases, conditions resulting from pregnancy and childbirth, and other issues related to nutritional deficiencies. In contrast, in high-income countries, these causes accounted for at most 7% of deaths. It is estimated that, by 2030, most countries will have made the much acclaimed epidemiological transition and have profiles with a higher prevalence of non-communicable diseases.

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