Want a reason to love 2015? This year, you're expected to live six years longer than you were in 1990. According to an analysis from the Global Burden of Disease study published in The Lancet medical journal, death rates from major diseases have declined so much in the past 15 years that life expectancy around the world has increased from 65.3 years to 71.5 years. In richer parts of the world, this is largely due to fewer deaths from cancer and heart disease, while in poor countries, people are now more likely to survive things like diarrhea, tuberculosis and malaria. Researchers say that efforts and funding directed toward fighting these illnesses have gone a long way. It's encouraging to hear that collective action can make a difference, but there is still much work to be done. Malaria, diarrhea and respiratory infections continue to be some of the leading causes of death worldwide. And HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa continues to whittle down life expectancy in that part of the world. In fact, it's the greatest cause of death in many of those countries. Looking for a way to start 2015 out right? Continue the season of giving by supporting organizations that fight AIDS in Africa, and educate yourself about the prevention of heart disease and cancer to help extend your life, so you'll see many more years to come. In 2015, Canadian Living is turning 40! To celebrate, learn how to add 40 years to your life. (Photography: FlickrCC/Bartfett)