Factors Influencing Life Expectancy in Low-Income Countries: A Panel Data Analysis

Understanding the factors influencing life expectancy in low-income countries is crucial for formulating effective health and economic policies. This study aims to explore the determinants of life expectancy in these countries by analyzing panel data from 2004 to 2021. The hypothesis posits that economic indicators, healthcare expenditure, and agricultural land significantly affect life expectancy, while high HIV prevalence negatively impacts it. The research procedure involved using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analysis with life expectancy at birth as the dependent variable and GDP per capita (PPP, constant 2021 international $), government health expenditure per capita (current international $), agricultural land (% of land area), HIV prevalence (% of population ages 15–49), and current health expenditure per capita (current international $) as independent variables. The main results indicate that GDP per capita, government health expenditure, and agricultural land positively influence life expectancy, highlighting the importance of economic growth, healthcare investment, and food security. In contrast, HIV prevalence has a significant negative effect on life expectancy, underscoring the health burden of the epidemic. Statistical tests for heteroskedasticity and normality reveal some deviations, but the robustness of the analysis is maintained through appropriate econometric techniques. Theoretically, this study contributes to the literature by providing a nuanced understanding of how economic and health-related factors interact to affect life expectancy in low-income countries. Practically, the findings suggest that policies aimed at boosting economic growth, increasing healthcare spending, improving agricultural practices, and addressing HIV/AIDS are vital for enhancing life expectancy. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers in low-income countries striving to improve population health outcomes.