Leading Causes of Death in the U.S.: Heart Disease, Cancer, and Stroke
According to CDC data, the top causes of death in the United States are:
- Heart Disease – Includes coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and congenital defects. Leading cause for both men and women.
- Cancer – Malignant neoplasms of all sites. Second leading cause overall.
- COVID-19 – Ranked third in recent years (2020–2022).
- Unintentional Injuries – Including drug overdoses, motor vehicle crashes, falls.
- Stroke (Cerebrovascular Diseases) – Fifth leading cause; includes ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
Heart disease, cancer, and stroke together account for a substantial proportion of mortality. Prevention strategies include blood pressure and cholesterol control, smoking cessation, healthy diet, regular physical activity, cancer screenings, and vaccination.
Note: Rankings shift annually; always consult the latest CDC/NCHS reports.
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