What factors contribute to the United States lagging other countries in public health?

Despite having one of the world's largest economies and most advanced medical technologies, the United States ranks below many developed nations in key health metrics including life expectancy, infant mortality, and chronic disease rates. Recent policy discussions have intensified following the Trump administration's Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) reports, which identify four root causes of America's health challenges: poor diet and ultra-processed foods, environmental chemical exposure, lack of physical activity and chronic stress, and overmedicalization.

The MAHA Assessment (May 2025) and Strategy reports (September 2025) present striking comparisons: US life expectancy at 78.8 years versus 82.6 years in comparable nations, with over 40% of America's children having at least one chronic health condition. We're seeking expert input on the root causes of this health paradox and evidence-based strategies to address persistent public health challenges.