A practical US-focused explanation of lifespan, progression, disability risk, treatment, and the warning signs that should not be ignored. THE DIRECT ANSWER Degenerative disc disease itself is not considered a fatal condition and usually does not shorten a person’s lifespan. For most people, life expectancy is determined far more by age, cardiovascular health, cancer risk, diabetes, smoking, and other medical conditions. The more important concern is whether pain, weakness, reduced mobility, or nerve compression affects…