How do most people die?

Globally and in the United States, the leading causes of death have shifted over time, but some patterns remain consistent.

Global Perspective

• The most common causes of death worldwide are non-communicable diseases. Ischaemic heart disease is the leading cause, responsible for about 13% of all deaths, followed by cancers, which account for nearly one in five deaths4.
• Other significant causes include stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lower respiratory infections. COVID-19 also emerged as a major cause of death during the pandemic, but its impact has varied over time4.

United States

• In the U.S., the top three leading causes of death are heart disease, cancer, and accidents (unintentional injuries).
  • Heart disease accounts for approximately 21% of all deaths.
  • Cancer accounts for about 19% of all deaths.
  • Accidents, including drug overdoses, falls, and motor vehicle accidents, account for around 7% of all deaths25.

Age-Specific Causes

• For people over 45 in the U.S., heart disease and cancer are the dominant causes of death.
• For those under 45, accidents make up a larger share of deaths, with accidental drug overdoses being a significant component2.
• In children, unintentional injuries, such as motor vehicle accidents, are among the leading causes of death12.

Historical Context

• Historically, communicable diseases like influenza, tuberculosis, and diphtheria were major causes of death in the U.S., but these have been largely supplanted by non-communicable diseases like heart disease and cancer over the past century1.

In summary, the majority of deaths globally and in the U.S. are due to non-communicable diseases, with heart disease and cancer being the most prevalent causes. Accidents and other conditions also play significant roles, especially in younger age groups.