Socioeconomic Differences in Life Expectancy in Uruguay

Catalina Torres , Universidad de la República

Among Latin American countries, Uruguay stands out for its high per capita income, low levels of poverty and inequality, and universal access to health care and free education. The country has achieved some of the lowest infant mortality rates and highest life expectancy levels in the region. However, socioeconomic inequalities—though modest by regional standards—persist, affecting living conditions, health, and mortality risks. This study examines the magnitude of socioeconomic differences in life expectancy in Uruguay. Using multiple data sources and an indirect estimation method, it finds significant socioeconomic disparities in mortality across the life course. The probability of dying during the first year of life is three to four times higher among infants whose mothers have low educational attainment compared with those whose mothers have higher education. Among adults, men exhibit a clear socioeconomic gradient in mortality, with death rates declining steadily across income quintiles, whereas women show a less consistent pattern, though differences remain pronounced between the most and least advantaged groups. These disparities result in life expectancy gaps of up to 10 years for men and 6.6 years for women. The study provides a detailed analysis of how socioeconomic differences in mortality evolve with age in Uruguay, based on data from 2023–2024.

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 Presented in Session P6. Health, Mortality, and Ageing 2