Description: In this session, panelists discuss the rationale behind aging research. They will explore recent demographic and biological insights. They will then explore when those breakthroughs could happen, what would their impact be on our understanding of mortality and mortality rates and the effect on different groups. Finally, it will be a chance to have your questions answered by that eminent set of panelists.

Description: Two recent SOA research projects will be discussed. The first covers analysis of the drivers of mortality that shaped trends in US mortality. The second will look at using causes of death to predict future mortality improvements

Description: Papers: Chronic Diseases and Longevity Risk: An Application to Type II Diabetes Insurance Products – Hsin-Chung Wang, Ph.D. - Aletheia University; Jack C. Yue, ASA, Ph.D. – National Chengchi University; Ting-Chung Chang - Chihlee University of Technology Understanding Multimorbidities - Sam Gutterman, FSA, CERA, FCA, FCAS, HONFIA, MAAA

Description: Because data quality is critical in the measurement of an event as rare as the death of a supercentenarian, special care must be used. We will discuss practical methods of validation used by researchers in the field, alternate methodologies and data cleaning procedures to ensure validity of mortality data as extreme old age. We will also explore some of the consequences of inadequate data preparations on the curve of mortality at the end of life.

Description: This session is based on research sponsored by the Society of Actuaries Mortality and Longevity Strategic Research Program, the Canadian Institute of Actuaries, and the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries to develop new methods and tools to enhance current mortality modeling and measurement actuarial practices. The presentation will discuss research accomplishments to date including a new mortality dataset that subdivides the U.S. population by education level and provides insightful analysis on mortality inequalities and mortality by cause of death. Additionally, research currently being performed or planned will be explained.

Description: Panel members provide an overview of current practices and breaking trends in the critical illness market. Topics for discussion include benefit design, pricing considerations, recent experience and long-term outlook for the product. From the Record of the Society of Actuaries, Volume 28, No. 2, Session 47