The Secrets Behind Sweden's Longevity: Geography, Healthcare, and Environmental Awareness

November 30, 2023

According to the latest statistics, the life expectancy for women in Sweden is 81.4 years and for men is 76.3 years, with an average life expectancy of 78.8 years, making it one of the countries with the longest life expectancy in the world. What are the reasons behind the longevity of the Swedish people? After reviewing a large amount of related information, three secrets can be identified:

Special geographical environment: Stepping onto the land of Sweden is like entering a fairyland, with lush green mountains and trees. Sweden is known as the "Land of Forests" due to its abundant forest resources, with forests covering 64% of the country's land area. On average, each citizen owns 3 hectares of forest. Sweden is also home to over 92,000 lakes, which are the abundant "water of life" that nurtures a vibrant nation.

Superior healthcare system: Sweden has an excellent healthcare insurance system. All citizens enjoy free medical care, and each visit to the doctor only requires payment of a registration fee and a small symbolic medication fee. Hospitalization for children, students, and retirees is completely free. Pre-birth check-ups and childbirth for pregnant women are free, and maternity leave lasts for a year. Primary and secondary education is completely free, and lunch is provided free of charge to students. In Sweden, elderly individuals without family support can enter nursing homes and retirement homes specially designed for them. Retirees only need to pay a small service fee to receive thoughtful care in terms of daily life, medical care, entertainment, and even subsidies for hearing aids, glasses, and disability vehicles.

Strong environmental awareness: Nowadays in Sweden, even applying to establish a slightly polluting factory will attract opposition. In urban and rural areas of Sweden, millions of world-class brand cars can be seen on the roads. The country has strict exhaust emission standards for motor vehicles and considers "emitting smoke from the rear" as a shame, which can result in mandatory repairs or even scrapping of the vehicle. Due to the Swedish government's long-term commitment to environmental protection, the living environment for the population is considered world-class.

In Sweden, people work and live in a relaxed and carefree manner. It can be said that the Swedish way of "cherishing life to the fullest and enjoying life to the fullest" is also one of the secrets behind their healthy longevity.

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