Over the past half-century, China has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the health and well-being of its population. From the early 1960s to today, life expectancy at birth in China has nearly doubled, soaring from 40 years in 1961 to 78 years in 2021, according to the World Bank. This extraordinary leap positions China among the nations with the most rapid increases in life expectancy worldwide.
In 1961, China’s life expectancy lagged behind the global average by 6.3 years. Today, it surpasses the world average by 6.1 years and even edges past the average of upper-middle-income countries by 1.8 years. The gap with high-income countries has significantly narrowed to just 3.2 years. These strides are not only reflected in longevity but also in key health indicators such as maternal and infant mortality rates, which have decreased substantially and now outperform those in comparable nations.
This rapid improvement is the culmination of China’s long-term commitment to enhancing public health. Over the past 50 years, China has embraced a people-centered approach to development, continually reforming its medical and healthcare systems and forging a path tailored to its unique context.
One of the cornerstone efforts has been the substantial increase in health funding. National health expenditure skyrocketed from a modest 11 billion yuan in 1978 to an impressive 7.55 trillion yuan in 2021. On a per capita basis, spending surged from 11 yuan to approximately 5,400 yuan, reflecting the government’s prioritization of health in its budget.
Accessibility to health services has also seen significant advancements. The number of medical and health institutions expanded from 270,000 in 1961 to over one million by 2021. The Sixth Survey of National Health Services in 2021 revealed that nearly 90 percent of Chinese families can now reach their nearest medical facility within a 15-minute journey, underscoring the extensive reach of healthcare services across the nation.
Moreover, China has established the world’s largest basic medical security network. The system now covers up to 1.35 billion people, achieving a coverage rate exceeding 95 percent. This expansive network ensures that the vast majority of the population has access to essential medical services, reducing disparities in healthcare availability.
Efforts to strengthen public health services have also been paramount. China has focused on building and enhancing its disease prevention and control systems, while promoting healthy lifestyles among its citizens. Public health initiatives have aimed at raising awareness about nutrition, exercise, and preventive care, contributing to the overall improvement in health outcomes.
Equity in health services remains a central goal. The government has directed higher priority towards community-level and rural areas to improve accessibility. Special attention is given to vulnerable groups including women, children, the elderly, the disabled, and the economically disadvantaged, ensuring that progress is inclusive and widespread.
China’s journey in improving life expectancy is a testament to its sustained dedication to public health and social development. The nation’s experience offers valuable insights into how comprehensive health policies, substantial investment, and a focus on equity can dramatically enhance the well-being of a population.
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Rapid increase in life expectancy attests to China's development
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