Italy vs USA life expectancy

[MarcuccioV]

One thing I have noticed from my extensive research into my Italian side is a seemingly short life expectancy when compared to family members who emigrated to the U.S. Most ancestors in my grandparent's commune died in their 60's or 70's. I think one made it to 80. Many died in their 30's, 40's & 50's.

My grandfather emigrated at 19 and lived to 81 (heart disease); my grandmother (again arriving at 19) reached 95 (dementia). Many other U.S-based relatives (and paisani) reached 80-90+ with ease.

These were all hard working people with average lifestyles (none were "health nuts").

So what were the factors that shortened the lives of their predecessors..? Lifestyle..? Nutrition..? Disease..? Lack of proper or regular medical care (my 95YO grandmother never saw a doctor that I know of)..? A combination of these factors..?

It just seems strange that emigrating to another country tended to add 20-30 years to their life expectancy...

[FranciscoHolloway]

Your research into your Italian ancestors reveals a significant difference in life expectancy between those who remained in Italy and those who emigrated to the U.S. Many of your Italian relatives lived only into their 60s or 70s, with some dying as young as their 30s, while your grandparents in the U.S. lived much longer, with your grandmother reaching 95. Several factors may explain this disparity, including better access to healthcare, improved nutrition, different living conditions, increased health awareness, and reduced stress. Additionally, the historical challenges faced by those in rural Italy, such as wars and economic struggles, likely contributed to their shorter lifespans. Overall, these elements suggest that emigration had a profound impact on health and longevity for your family.

[darkerhorse]

I'd like to see a study comparing the characteristics of permanent immigrants v temporary immigrants and of non-immigrants v immigrants.