Demographic shifts in Chile and Colombia drive health and economic concerns

Latin American nations Chile and Colombia are facing significant demographic shifts as their populations age. In Chile, the proportion of people over 60 is expected to rise from 18.1% in 2022 to 32.1% by 2050. Medical experts, including Dr. Jorge Jalil of the Chilean Society of Cardiology, are emphasizing the need for increased cardiovascular prevention to combat risks such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity associated with aging.

In Colombia, the demographic transition is characterized by a rising life expectancy—averaging 77.5 years—and a declining fertility rate, which is currently the lowest in Latin America. Projections suggest that by 2050, one in five Colombians will be over 65. This shift poses structural challenges to the country's economy, pension systems, and fiscal sustainability, as the ratio of working-age individuals to elderly dependents is expected to drop significantly by 2070.