Americans are living longer lives, on average, for the first time in four years. Data from the CDC says that the life expectancy for Americans increased from 78.6 years in 2017 to 78.7 years in 2018. It was due in large part to declines in lung cancer mortality, infant mortality, and accidental deaths like drug overdoses. Every year the CDC issues a similar report on the top causes of death in America.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is the most common cause of death for Americans, and it accounts for almost a quarter of all deaths every year. In 2018, there were over 655,000 deaths from it. Even with medical advances like the echocardiogram and changes in many people’s habits, the number is still very high. Poor diets and sedentary lifestyles contribute to heart disease, but the number is slightly down from previous years.
Cancer
Almost 600,000 people die from some form of cancer every year in the U.S., making it the second-highest killer of Americans every year. The disruption in treatments for cancer patients due to COVID-19 restrictions put on hospitals might lead to an increase in the next few years.
Accidents and Unintentional Injuries
This category includes drug overdoses, car accidents, and falls. Over 167,000 people died due to accidental death, but the overall rate is down slightly due to a decrease in drug overdoses. Drug prevention, education, and the recognition of the opioid crisis are helping to bring down overdose deaths.
Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases
This is a broad category that encapsulates lung problems, and it kills over 159,000 people every year. It includes deaths from obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, occupational lung disease, and pulmonary hypertension. Occupational lung disease is a subcategory that includes sickness due to exposure to dangerous substances while on the job, like asbestos.
Cerebrovascular Disease
The number five cause of death in America is responsible for over 147,000 deaths every year. Cerebrovascular disease includes stroke, carotid stenosis, vertebral and intracranial stenosis, aneurysm, and vascular malformation. The overall rate of these is down from previous years, but it’s still a danger.
Alzheimer’s Disease
This awful, degenerative disease claims over 120,000 lives every year. As with many of the others, the rate of death from Alzheimer’s is down. The CDC predicts that by the year 2060, close to 3% of the population will suffer from Alzheimer’s or related dementia.
