Saudi Arabia's Life Expectancy Reaches 77.6 Years, a Remarkable Increase

Riyadh: The efforts and initiatives undertaken by Saudi Arabia, including the implementation of health promotion principles across all policies and aspects of life, have resulted in a significant increase in the country's average life expectancy. According to a report released by the Health Sector Transformation Program, the average life expectancy in Saudi Arabia has risen to 77.6 years, a stark improvement from 74 years in 2016.

The report highlights the positive impact of policies and decisions implemented by Saudi Arabia to enhance public health. Initiatives such as promoting walking, reducing salt in foods, disclosing calories, and other health-conscious policies have contributed to this remarkable increase. Efforts to improve health services and strengthen prevention against health risks have also played a crucial role.

The year 2023 marked several milestones in Saudi Arabia's healthcare sector. The Council of Ministers approved the establishment of the National Institute for Health Research, showcasing the country's commitment to advancing medical knowledge. Additionally, the health clusters were launched as part of the first transformational stage, enabling them to carry out their role in population health. The National Platform for Health and Insurance Exchange Services (Nphies) was also introduced, providing comprehensive, secure, and accurate data based on the Value-Based Healthcare model.

The report further highlights significant achievements in healthcare services. The Shifa platform saw an increase of nearly three percent, benefitting over 7,233 cases in 2023. The Saudi Center for Medical Appointments and Referrals completed over 300,000 successful internal and external referrals, ensuring timely access to appropriate healthcare.

Demonstrating a commitment to preventive healthcare, Saudi Arabia prioritizes early detection. Over five million individuals underwent exploratory obesity screening, with more than a million cases detected early. Additionally, over one million people underwent diabetes screening, identifying approximately 11,000 cases in their early stages. Early breast cancer screening reached approximately 160,000 women, resulting in the early detection of 654 cases. Early detection through these screening programs significantly contributes to successful treatment outcomes.

The substantial increase in life expectancy reflects the continuous advancements and improvements in Saudi Arabia's healthcare system. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and providing quality healthcare services, the country demonstrates its commitment to the well-being and longevity of its population. Through continued efforts, Saudi Arabia will further solidify its position as a leader in promoting good health and well-being for all its citizens.