What steps will you take to live longer – and help others do the same? Let’s start the conversation now, writes DOUGLAS RASBASH
What determines how long you live? Is it genes, the environment, lifestyle or education? Research reveals that longevity is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, ranging from individual choices like diet and exercise to structural issues like pollution and education.
For Botswana, where life expectancy has risen to around 66 years, understanding these variables offers valuable lessons for personal and national well-being.
This article delves into some of factors that can either add or subtract years from your life, using global evidence while highlighting lessons for Botswana. From quitting smoking to improving education, these insights can guide policymakers and individuals towards healthier, longer lives.
Education as a Lifespan Multiplier
Botswana’s investment in education is paying dividends but there is room for improvement. Providing universal access to secondary and tertiary education could add years to the nation’s collective life expectancy. Attainment of educational not only increases earnings but also fosters better health literacy, enabling individuals to make healthier choices.
Combatting Lifestyle Diseases
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension are on the rise in Botswana. Tackling these through campaigns promoting exercise, healthy diets, and regular check-ups can prevent premature deaths. For instance, community fitness programmes in schools or public parks could encourage physical activity across all age groups.
Urbanization and Green Spaces
As Botswana urbanises, incorporating green spaces into city planning can counteract the stresses of modern life. Studies show that proximity to nature boosts both mental and physical health, reducing risks of heart disease and depression.
Pollution and Climate Action
While Botswana has relatively clean air compared to industrialised nations, urbanisation and coal production could increase pollution levels. Investing in clean energy and public transportation can mitigate this risk. Additionally, climate adaptation strategies, such as cooling shelters and heat-resilient housing, will be crucial as global temperatures rise.
Social Bonds and Longevity
Botswana’s culture of community and extended family networks is a natural asset. However, urban migration is weakening these ties. Policies fostering community centres, sports clubs, and social events could preserve these bonds and improve life expectancy.
Eating better
Diet and nutrition are vital for health and longevity. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains reduce chronic disease risks, while processed foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats increase risks of obesity, diabetes and heart disease. In Botswana, malnutrition and over-nutrition coexist: rural areas face food insecurity while urban diets shift toward unhealthy, processed foods. Promoting traditional staples like sorghum and beans, addressing micronutrient deficiencies, and adopting climate-resilient agriculture are key. Public health campaigns and improved food access can ensure balanced nutrition, supporting longer, healthier lives in Botswana amidst rising health challenges.
Active Life
Physical activity is essential for longevity and overall health. Regular exercise strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and lowers risks of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension. It also supports mental health by reducing stress, anxiety and depression. In Botswana, urbanisation has led to more sedentary lifestyles, contributing to rising non-communicable diseases. Encouraging walking, cycling, and active community programmes can counteract this trend.
Traditional activities, such as farming and herding, once integral to daily life, also offer opportunities to promote movement. Investing in safe, accessible public spaces for physical activity can enhance both individual well-being and national health outcomes.
Substance Abuse and Alcohol Control
Botswana’s efforts to regulate alcohol sales have been globally lauded but challenges remain, particularly with drugs. Expanding rehabilitation services and educational campaigns can further reduce the toll of substance abuse.
An Opportunity for Change
Any governments overarching goal is to improve the well-being of its citizens. Hospitals and clinics crammed full of people with preventable health conditions do not speak well of our government’s interest in well-being, and this must change. Prevention of health maladies is far better than curative intervention.
Botswana is at a crossroads. With a growing middle-class and rapid urbanisation, the country has the opportunity to shape its public health future. By focusing on education, lifestyle changes and environmental improvements, Botswana can extend life expectancy while enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. This isn’t just about adding years; it’s about making those years healthier and more fulfilling. Whether through individual choices or public policies, small changes today can yield transformative results tomorrow.
What steps will you take to live longer – and help others do the same? Let’s start the conversation now.