Swiss Re CEO Discusses Excess Mortality, Long COVID & GLP-1 Drug Impact

Mortality has taken center stage in the life insurance industry since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Despite expectations of a rebound, death rates have remained higher than projected, driven not only by lingering COVID-19 impacts but also by rising cases of heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, and drug overdoses.

As one of the world’s leading reinsurers, Swiss Re continues to conduct in-depth research into mortality trends. In its most recent study released in September 2025, the company highlighted the potential of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs to transform public health. Under its most optimistic projection, Swiss Re estimates these drugs could reduce cumulative all-cause mortality in the U.S. by 6.4% over the next 20 years.

During the LIMRA 2025 Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida, Neil Sprackling, President of Swiss Re’s U.S. Life & Health division, sat down with InsuranceNewsNet Senior Editor John Hilton to discuss the shifting landscape of mortality and health trends post-pandemic.

With over 40 years of experience in the reinsurance sector, Sprackling joined Swiss Re in 1997 and has played a vital role in shaping the company’s strategic direction. Before taking on his current leadership role in the U.S., he headed Swiss Re’s Life & Health operations in Australia and New Zealand.

Sprackling has been a driving force behind several of Swiss Re’s global initiatives, including efforts to address the protection gap — the widespread issue of underinsurance among individuals and families. His continued focus remains on innovation, longevity research, and developing solutions that help insurers better manage evolving mortality risks.