Frazer Blog

Top 10 Causes of Death in the U.S.

by | Apr 4, 2019 | For Families

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Although death is inevitable and unpredictable, you should still be aware of the top causes of death. By knowing the causes of life-threatening diseases and the top death-related accidents, you can possibly prevent them and educate others.

Below are the top 10 causes of death in the U.S. according to 2016 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

1. Heart Disease

According to the CDC, heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the U.S. with 635,260 deaths in 2016. Some ways to reduce your risk of developing heart disease are by staying active and eating a heart-healthy diet. Check out this heart disease article for ways you can help educate others about heart disease.

2. Cancer

Cancer is the number two cause of death in the U.S. with 598,038 deaths. Some ways to reduce your risk of developing cancer are by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, protecting your skin from the sun, and getting regular cancer screenings.

3. Accidents

Accidental deaths are number three with 161,374 deaths. According to 2017 CDC data about causes of death by age group, accidents are the most common cause of death for people ages 1-44.

Opioid deaths are now more likely than car accidents for accidental deaths, per NPR. The National Safety Council reports that there is a 1 in 96 chance of an opioid death compared to a 1 in 103 chance of a car accident. These alarming statistics show the impact the opioid epidemic is having throughout the U.S. You can help by educating others about the dangers of substance use disorder.

4. Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases

The fourth top cause of death in the U.S. is 154,596 deaths from chronic lower respiratory diseases. According to Healthline, using tobacco and secondhand smoke are the top causes of these diseases.

5. Stroke

With 142,142 deaths, strokes are the number five top cause of death in the U.S. Some ways to reduce your risk of having a stroke are the same as for preventing heart disease, such as eating healthy and exercising regularly.

Other Top Causes of Death

Below are the other top causes of death in the U.S. in 2016:

6. Alzheimer’s Disease — 116,103 deaths

7. Diabetes — 80,058 deaths

8. Influenza or Pneumonia — 51,537 deaths

9. Nephritis, Nephrotic Syndrome, and Nephrosis — 50,046 deaths

10. Suicide — 44,965 deaths

What are your thoughts on these statistics? Share them with us in the comments!

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