When you want to move somewhere where the cost of living is low, you might be inclined to choose Louisiana. The state boasts some of the lowest costs on housing and general goods. (Plus, you’ll be in the heart of Mardi Gras reveler territory where fun reigns!)
There’s just one obstacle: Louisiana doesn’t rank quite as well in the life expectancy category. In fact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) put Louisiana at the bottom of its 2020 list, just above West Virginia and Mississippi. How much of a difference does a third-lowest ranking make? Let’s put it this way: In Hawaii, which earned the number one spot, you can expect to make it to more than 81 years old. In Louisiana, your chances drop to just above 73 years old. That’s a fairly sizable gap.
So, why the discrepancy between the life expectancy in Louisiana versus in other states? According to Greg Sonnenfeld, a coordinator of oncology services for Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, Louisiana, many people in the state skip screenings or put them off too long, leaving them at risk of developing serious and life-threatening conditions (via KSLA). Said Sonnenfeld, “[W]e know that screening saves lives when we catch cancer at an early stage.”
Avoidance of screenings and poor diet increase risk of death
Cancer was the second highest cause of death among Louisiana residents as of 2022, notes the CDC. The top cause was cardiovascular disease, another problem that can be fatal if not found early (so don’t cancel your preventative screens, which is one of the risky health mistakes you should avoid if you’re over 50).
The low life expectancy in Louisiana may be related to two other medical-related problems: the accessibility to and affordability of healthcare. The Louisiana Department of Health acknowledged that due to socioeconomic barriers, some Louisianans just weren’t getting in front of providers, adding that “creating links between community organizations and clinical services reduces barriers to preventive screenings and equips residents with, or at high risk of, chronic conditions to the treatment and resources needed to prevent or manage them” (via Louisiana First News).
Beyond medical issues, diet may play a part in Louisiana’s life expectancy ranking as well. In a 2023 interview with Louisiana Radio Network, Dr. Michael Smith, the Director of Education at Life Extension, admitted that Louisiana cuisine was amazing, but not always healthy. As he said when probed why he thought that Louisiana rated so far down the list, “I’m from Texas. I love Southern foods and that’s probably one of the biggest factors.”
Surpassing the average Louisiana lifespan
If you love the idea of living in a place with a warm climate with unique culture and spicy local cuisine, Louisiana is definitely an option. Ultimately, though, to prolong your lifespan regardless of which state you’re residing in, set and keep preventative medical appointments. (Read about why you should think twice before scheduling a doctor’s appointment on a Monday.)
Secondly, consider moving to an area where you’ll be close to a major medical center. That way, if you need emergency services due to being in an accident or experiencing health symptoms that are serious red flags, you can get diagnosed and treated. This doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be seen right away: Louisiana ER wait times are more than two hours, on average. But that’s actually less than you’ll find in other states; in Delaware, you’re apt to be sitting for no less than three hours before seeing someone.
Third, maintain a well-balanced diet and lifestyle with adequate physical activity. Limit your consumption of deep-fried, high-fat foods instead of making them part of your daily meals, or learn to make healthier (e.g., reduced fat) versions of your favorite foods.
