Turkey is ranked 51st out of 169 countries in the 2019 edition of the “Bloomberg Healthiest Country Index.”
Turkey placed 54th in the previous index, published in 2017.
The top 10 were dominated by European countries, with Spain ranking first, followed by Italy and Iceland.
Researchers say eating habits may provide clues to health levels enjoyed by Spain and Italy, as a “Mediterranean diet, supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts, had a lower rate of major cardiovascular events than those assigned to reduced-fat diet,” Bloomberg stated.
The index grades nations based on variables including life expectancy while imposing penalties on risks such as tobacco use and obesity.
It also takes into consideration environmental factors including access to clean water and sanitation.