WHO Report Reveals Life Expectancy: India at 71 Years, Pakistan at 68.2 Years
A recent WHO report indicates that Indians live longer than Pakistanis, but health challenges persist across South Asia.
India's life expectancy is 71 years, compared to 68.2 years in Pakistan and 72.2 years in Bangladesh.
Non-communicable diseases are the leading causes of death in both India and Pakistan.
India faces significant respiratory health challenges, while Pakistan struggles with maternal and infant health issues.
According to a newly released report by the World Health Organization (WHO), Indians have a life expectancy of 71 years, surpassing Pakistan's 68.2 years, but falling short of Bangladesh's 72.2 years. This report, published on October 5, 2026, sheds light on the health disparities and challenges faced by these South Asian nations, particularly in the context of rising non-communicable diseases and persistent infectious illnesses.
The WHO data highlights that while India has made strides in increasing life expectancy, the quality of health remains a concern. The report indicates that a longer life does not equate to better health, as many individuals in these countries experience chronic illnesses and disabilities in their later years. In India, for instance, the healthy life expectancy (HALE) is significantly lower at 60.6 years, suggesting that people spend a considerable part of their lives dealing with health issues.
The leading causes of mortality in both India and Pakistan are largely attributed to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Ischaemic heart disease is reported as the top cause of death in both countries, followed by strokes and diabetes mellitus. In India, NCDs account for 75% of all deaths among the top ten causes, indicating a critical public health challenge that needs addressing.
While both nations share similar health burdens, there are notable differences in their health profiles. India grapples with a high prevalence of respiratory diseases, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), exacerbated by air pollution. Conversely, Pakistan faces significant challenges related to maternal health, with complications from childbirth and low birth weight being more prevalent than in India. Infectious diseases also remain a concern, with tuberculosis being a major cause of death in India, while Pakistan deals with severe diarrhoeal diseases linked to sanitation issues.
The findings from the WHO report underscore the need for targeted health interventions in both countries. As India continues to improve its life expectancy, addressing the gap between longevity and health quality is essential. Policymakers are urged to focus on enhancing healthcare access and addressing the root causes of chronic and infectious diseases to ensure a healthier future for their populations.
