A National Housing and Population Census 2024 Report released by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) indicates that Ugandan women are still living longer than their male counterparts with the Teso sub-region boasting the highest life expectancy at birth, reaching 77.1 years.
Life expectancy at birth is the average number of years that a newborn could expect to live if he or she were to pass through life exposed to the sex and age-specific death rates prevailing at the time of his or her birth, for a specific year, in a given country, territory, or geographic area.
Life Expectancy at birth is a measure often used to gauge the overall quality of life of a nation. It gives a summary measure of the mortality experience of the population at all ages.
A life table consists of data on survivorship and the probability of dying of individuals within a given population. An increase in life expectancy at birth could be attributed to improvements in healthcare, among other things.
According to a UBOS chart, the overall life expectancy at birth in 2024 was 68.2 years up from 63.7 years in 2014. The life expectancy at birth for males (66.9 years) was lower compared to their female counterparts (70.1 years).
This means that males and females born in Uganda now and subjected to the current levels of mortality at different ages are expected to live for 66.9 years (males) and 70.1 years (females).
Chart Analysis
Overall, the chart shows a significant increase in life expectancy for both males and females across the years.
In terms of the gender gap, in 1969, there was a noticeable gap between male and female life expectancy. However, this gap has narrowed significantly over time, with females consistently having a slightly higher life expectancy.
Explaining the Trends
In 1969, the average life expectancy at birth was around 46 years for both males and females. The year 2014 marked a notable jump in life expectancy for both genders, suggesting significant improvements in healthcare and living conditions.
Imagine a Ugandan woman born in 1969. Back then, life expectancy was around 46 years. She likely grew up in a time of limited healthcare and faced challenges related to nutrition, sanitation, and infectious diseases. Her life expectancy was much shorter than what we consider normal today.
Now, consider a Ugandan woman born in 2024. Her life expectancy at birth is around 68 years. She is born into a world with better healthcare, improved sanitation, and a greater understanding of nutrition and disease prevention. She has a much better chance of reaching a longer and healthier life than her grandmother born in 1969.
This chart tells a story of progress. It shows how advancements in healthcare, sanitation, and living conditions have significantly improved the quality of life and life expectancy for Ugandans. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community members who have worked tirelessly to improve public health outcomes.
Life Expectancy by Region
A UBOS map clearly shows significant regional disparities in life expectancy at birth across Uganda.
The Teso sub-region boasts the highest life expectancy at birth, reaching 77.1 years while the Tooro sub-region has the lowest life expectancy at birth, at 66 years.
The colour gradient on the map effectively represents the variation in life expectancy, with darker shades indicating higher life expectancy and lighter shades indicating lower life expectancy.
Possible Explanations for Regional Disparities
Unequal access to quality healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and trained medical personnel, could be a major factor. Regions with better healthcare infrastructure and access to essential services are likely to have higher life expectancy.
Poverty, education levels, and access to clean water and sanitation can significantly impact health outcomes. Regions with higher poverty levels and limited access to basic amenities may experience lower life expectancy.
The prevalence of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis can vary across regions. Regions with higher disease burdens may have lower life expectancy.
Malnutrition, particularly among children, can have a significant impact on health and development. Regions with higher rates of malnutrition may have lower life expectancy.
