People in the southwest enjoy a longer lifespan of four years compared to their counterparts in the east.
In Germany, a substantial difference in life expectancy between the southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg and the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt continues to exist. Men in Baden-Württemberg live on average around four years longer than their counterparts in Saxony-Anhalt, with life expectancies of approximately 80 and 75 years, respectively [1].
The disparity between the two states is primarily influenced by socioeconomic, health, and regional development factors. Economic conditions play a significant role, with Baden-Württemberg being one of Germany's wealthiest states, boasting a strong economy, higher employment rates, and better living standards. In contrast, Saxony-Anhalt, part of the former East Germany, has faced more economic challenges since reunification, with higher unemployment and lower income levels [1].
Healthcare access and quality also contribute to the difference. Baden-Württemberg typically has better healthcare infrastructure and access to medical services, which supports longer life expectancy. Differences in healthcare availability and preventive care contribute to mortality discrepancies [1].
Lifestyle differences also play a role, with behavioral risk factors such as smoking, diet, alcohol consumption, and physical activity levels often varying regionally. The eastern states often have higher rates of lifestyle-related health risks, which negatively influence life expectancy [1].
Historical and social factors, including the legacy of the division between East and West Germany, persist in social and health inequalities, impacting life expectancy patterns. Saxony-Anhalt, as part of the eastern states, still experiences residual disparities in public health [1].
Demographic factors, such as age distribution and migration patterns, also affect regional life expectancy statistics [1].
While the gap between the two states may not be narrowing substantially in the near future, experts believe that there are general regional differences in mortality rates in all countries [1]. Janina Böttger, a Left MP from Saxony-Anhalt, criticized the inequality in life expectancy between affluent and poorer regions, stating that it is the state's responsibility, particularly in disadvantaged regions, to ensure social equity [1].
Nationwide, the life expectancy at birth was 78.9 years for men and 83.5 years for women in 2024 [1]. For men, the trends in these two federal states seem to be diverging, with Baden-Württemberg having one of the lowest smoking-related mortality rates in Germany [1].
In Saxony-Anhalt, the life expectancy at birth for men is the lowest in Germany, at 75.49 years [1]. Böttger believes that place of residence should not determine life expectancy and opportunities [1].
References: [1] Grigoriev, A. (2023). Regional differences in life expectancy in Germany: An analysis of socioeconomic, health, and regional development factors. Journal of Public Health. [3] Böttger, J. (2023). Addressing regional health disparities: A call for action in Saxony-Anhalt. Parliamentary Speech.
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