Americans prioritize healthy living over longevity

Americans are increasingly prioritizing a healthy, quality life over mere longevity, with many preferring a shorter but healthier life to a longer one plagued by health issues.  

This perspective emerges from a survey conducted by Medtronic in partnership with Morning Consult, revealing a significant interest among US adults in leveraging healthcare technology to enhance their life expectancy and quality of life.   

Despite the aspiration to live up to 90 years—well beyond the current average life expectancy of 77.5 years in the US—only 39 percent of Americans are engaging in preventative health measures such as regular screenings and medical check-ups.  

Furthermore, discussions about longevity with doctors are uncommon, with just 29 percent of adults doing so.  

Lifestyle choices such as healthy eating and regular exercise are practiced by approximately half of the respondents, even though these factors are crucial in preventing chronic diseases.   

Laura Mauri, chief scientific, medical, and regulatory officer at Medtronic, emphasizes the importance of expanding treatment options alongside prevention to align with people’s health priorities.  

“The role of technology in enhancing longevity and improving quality of life is accelerating, offering more personalized treatments, quicker recoveries, and earlier diagnoses,” stated Mauri.   

Healthcare technology has already shown promising results in areas such as early cancer detection, reducing reliance on oral medications for pain management, and alleviating chronic disease burdens.  

Cameron Moore, a diabetic for 19 years, shared his positive experience with a Medtronic insulin pump equipped with meal detection technology, highlighting how it allows him to focus more on life and less on his condition.   

Medtronic suggests a simple approach for individuals looking to take control of their health through the acronym T.E.C.H.:   

• Talk to your doctor: Engage in conversations about new AI-driven screening options that can detect diseases earlier. 

• Explore treatment options: Consider technologies that mitigate the impact of chronic conditions and offer alternatives to traditional pain management like opioids. 

• Check your assumptions: Reassess concerns about long hospital stays and recovery times considering advances in non-invasive or minimally invasive surgeries. 

• Honor your needs: Communicate your life priorities to your doctor to tailor a treatment plan that enhances your quality of life. 

This approach underlines the potential of healthcare technology to transform the landscape of personal health management, offering hope and practical solutions regardless of one’s health status.