The average life expectancy in Israel ranks fifth among the world's developed countries, beating out Sweden, Canada and Luxembourg, according to an OECD global report published Wednesday. Japan tops the list with an average life expectancy of 83 years. According to the report, which compared the 34 most developed countries in the world, in 2009 Israelis enjoyed a life expectancy of 81.6 years, two years longer than the OECD average of 79.5 years. The report also notes that Israeli women outlived Israeli men in 2009, with the average man living 79.7 years and the average woman living 83.5. The second spot on the list went to Switzerland, with an average life expectancy of 82.3 years, followed by Italy with 81.8 years. The U.S. is ranked 26th, with an average lifespan of 78.2 years. Turkey closes list at 73.8 average years. The OECD report reveals a marked increase in the average life expectancy of citizens of developed nations, which comes as a result of a steady decline in infant mortality rates. According to the report, Israel can also boast one of the world's lowest infant mortality rates - 3.8 deaths per 1,000 births. The global average stands at 4.4 infant deaths per 1,000 births. Additional statistics point to a decrease in cancer-related deaths, although cancer remains the number one cause of death in Israel. Israel's total health expenditure per capita is also reported to be among the lowest in the world. Despite these encouraging statistics, the state of Israel's health care system is far less optimistic. There are only two hospital beds per every 1,000 citizens in Israel, a rate significantly below the OECD average of 3.5 per 1,000. Israel is also lagging in its treatment of asthma and other pulmonary diseases, according to the report. The report did note, however, an Israeli improvement in the treatment of chronic diseases.
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