People in the Southwest region live a longer life by roughly four years compared to those in the Eastern regions. - Individuals in the Southwest region enjoy a longer lifespan by approximately four years compared to those residing in the Eastern regions.
In a stark contrast, Baden-Württemberg, one of Germany's wealthiest regions, has a significantly higher GDP compared to Saxony-Anhalt. Last year, Baden-Württemberg's GDP stood at approximately 650.2 billion euros, while Saxony-Anhalt recorded 79.4 billion euros[1].
This economic disparity translates into a notable difference in life expectancy between the two states. Men in Baden-Württemberg can expect to live nearly 80 years on average, while in Saxony-Anhalt it is about 75 years, a gap of approximately four years[1].
The reasons behind this difference are multifaceted. Economic conditions play a crucial role, with Baden-Württemberg boasting a strong economy, high employment rates, and better access to resources[1]. In contrast, Saxony-Anhalt generally experiences lower economic prosperity and higher unemployment, which negatively affect health outcomes and life expectancy.
Healthcare access and quality also contribute significantly to the disparity. Regions like Baden-Württemberg tend to have better healthcare infrastructure and access to medical services, which support healthier populations and longer lives[1].
Lifestyle and behavioral factors also play a role. Residents in Baden-Württemberg may engage more frequently in healthier lifestyles, including diet and exercise, compared to eastern states, which historically have higher rates of smoking and alcohol consumption[1].
Psychosocial and environmental factors also come into play. Psychological resilience and social stability are often higher in economically better-off areas, supporting better cardiovascular health and lower mortality from chronic diseases[4].
Historical and structural differences also contribute to the gap. The legacy of the former East Germany (which includes Saxony-Anhalt) has had lasting effects due to differences in social determinants like income, education, and health services since reunification[1].
Janina Böttger, a Left MP from Saxony-Anhalt, criticized the inequality in life expectancy between wealthy and poorer regions[2]. She emphasized that the place of residence should not determine life expectancy and opportunities. The Federal Government is responsible for addressing the political demands arising from the gap in life expectancy between regions[2].
Expert Pavel Grigoriev noted that regional differences in mortality exist in all countries, but they are relatively small compared to internationally, with significant differences in Germany, especially when comparing new and old federal states like Saxony-Anhalt and Baden-Württemberg[3].
While the regions of Southwest and Berlin were not specifically mentioned in relation to life expectancy, it is clear that economic prosperity, healthcare access, and lifestyle factors all play significant roles in determining life expectancy across Germany.
- To address the discrepancy in life expectancy between Baden-Württemberg and Saxony-Anhalt, policy makers could consider implementing community policies that promote health and wellness, mental health, men's health, and chronic disease management through vocational training programs, ensuring a workforce equipped with the necessary skills to address these issues effectively.
- Additionally, focusing on health education and awareness in Saxony-Anhalt concerning medical-conditions related to lifestyle and behavioral factors, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, could help bridge the life expectancy gap.
- Studies examining the relationship between CBD and health outcomes could provide insights into potential treatment options for various medical-conditions and chronic diseases, potentially reducing the gap in life expectancy between Baden-Württemberg and Saxony-Anhalt.
- Addressing the social determinants of health, such as income, education, and access to resources, as historically seen in the former East Germany, could contribute to a reduction in the life expectancy disparity between the regions.
