LETTERS: We ought to be happy that life expectancy in Malaysia increased by 12 years from 63.6 years in 1970 to 75.6 years in 2021.

Does this mean that five decades ago, people in this country died a natural death at the average age of 63.6 years, and those alive now are expected to live up to 75.6 years?

Far from it. Life expectancy is applicable at birth, meaning babies born today are expected to live for over seven decades on average.

But not for those born in 1970, as they were expected to live an average life of 63.6 years and that will be in 2033, 11 years from now.

Interestingly, life expectancy for babies born here in 1950 was 52.8 years.

Those who will be born in 2050 will reach 80.46 years, and 86.62 years by 2100.

I have surpassed my life expectancy by more than 20 years, thanks to free healthcare by the government, eating food in moderation, exercising regularly and avoiding dangerous activities, such as riding motorcycles.

Hence, life expectancy is just a projection based on data, risks and likelihood.

As the figure is for an average age, generally speaking, about half will die before their life expectancy, and the other half will surpass it.

For most of us, our lifestyle will give us a clue about our life expectancy.

For example, Mat Rempit are aware that they can be injured or killed riding at breakneck speed.

But the thrill is too hard to resist for daredevils.

They know their life expectancy when they’re involved in dangerous activities.

Y.S. CHAN

Kuala Lumpur

Source : NST