"For the first time, U.S. life expectancy has surpassed 78 years," (CBS News). In 2006, Texas was ranked 30th out of the 50 states with an average life expectancy of 76.7 years (BusinessWeek). According to a recent article by the Associated Press on KBTX.com, there are some Texas counties that have a higher life expectancy than others. Hidalgo and Cameron counties, which are primarily Hispanic counties along the Texas-Mexico border, ranked first and second in Texas residents and life expectancy, living up to 80.2 and 80.1 years of age. Williamson and Collin counties tied for third with an average life span of 79.7 years of age and Starr county ranked fifth, with 79.6 years as the average life expectancy.

Beyond genetics and year of birth, it appears that there are many factors that affect life expectancy. A person's diet, exercise regime, health habits, and lifestyle can have a dramatic affect on longevity. Even a person's ability to cope with stress and his/her attitude about aging are factors. Furthermore, geographic location seems to have a huge impact, especially for those residents who live in countries where there is a lot of war, poverty, and/or infectious diseases.

Overall, it's a fact that more...

Advances in public health such as immunizations, safer and healthier food, improved sanitation, and clean water have helped people live longer, healthier lives. Just think, in 1900, the life expectancy was 47 years old and today that expectancy is up to 77 years old -- and counting (Sanchez).
References

"1930 United States Federal Census" (2002) Ancestry.com., The National Archives. Provo, UT, USA. Web. 7 Apr. 2010.

"Average U.S. Life Expectancy Tops 78" CBS News. (2008) Web. 7 Apr. 2010.

Dublin, Louis. "Life Tables 1939-41, State and Regional." (1948) Vital Statistics of the United States. Web. 7 Apr. 2010.

"Life Expectancy Calculator." Society of Certified Senior Advisors Website. Web. 7 Apr. 2010.

"Longer Life in Border Counties" KBTX.com. The Associated Press. (2010) Web. 7 Apr. 2010.

Sanchez, Eduardo. Lifestyle Choices, Preventative Measures, Can Contribute to Healthier Aging Texas Department of State Health Services. (2005) Web. 7 Apr. 2010.

Sullivan, Arthur, and Steven M. Sheffrin. Economics: Principles in action. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, 07458: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2003. pp. 473. Web.…