When looking at the top causes of death in the United States, it helps to use the most up-to-date information.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the leading causes of death in 2022 offer a clear picture of the health challenges Americans face.
Using the CDC’s “Leading Causes of Death” report,1 we can better understand which diseases and accidents are taking the most lives, and why it’s important to focus on prevention and awareness to stay healthier.
1. Diseases of the Heart
- Number of deaths in 2022: 702,880
- Rate in 2022: 167.2
- Percent: 21.4
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. and globally. It refers to a variety of heart-related conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart attacks, arrhythmias, and heart failure.
Coronary artery disease, caused by the narrowing or blockage of arteries due to plaque buildup, is the most common form. Major risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, poor diet, and lack of exercise.
Prevention involves lifestyle changes like regular physical activity, a heart-healthy diet, and medication when needed.
2. Malignant Neoplasms (Cancer)
- Number of deaths in 2022: 608,371
- Rate in 2022: 142.3
- Percent: 18.5
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. It occurs when cells in the body grow uncontrollably, forming malignant tumors. There are many types of cancer, including lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer, which are among the most common.
Risk factors include smoking, alcohol use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, exposure to carcinogens (like radiation or certain chemicals), and genetics. Early detection, screening, and treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can improve survival rates.
3. Accidents (Unintentional Injuries)
- Number of deaths in 2022: 227,039
- Rate in 2022: 64.0
- Percent: 6.9
Unintentional injuries, or accidents, are the third leading cause of death. This category includes motor vehicle accidents, falls, poisoning (including drug overdoses, especially from opioids), and drowning.
These injuries disproportionately affect younger people, but they remain a significant cause of death across all age groups. Preventative measures include practicing safe driving, using seatbelts, wearing helmets, reducing substance abuse, and fall prevention strategies, especially for older adults.
4. COVID-19
- Number of deaths in 2022: 186,552
- Rate in 2022: 44.5
- Percent: 5.7
Since the pandemic began in 2020, COVID-19 has become one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. The virus primarily affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms that range from mild to severe, including pneumonia, difficulty breathing, and in some cases, death.
It can also lead to complications like blood clots, heart problems, and long-term issues in some survivors (known as “long COVID”). Vaccination, wearing masks, practicing good hygiene, and staying informed about public health guidelines are key to preventing the spread of COVID-19.
5. Cerebrovascular Diseases (Stroke)
- Number of deaths in 2022: 165,393
- Rate in 2022: 39.5
- Percent: 5.0
Cerebrovascular diseases, particularly strokes, rank as the fifth leading cause of death. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients.
There are two main types: ischemic strokes, caused by a blocked artery, and hemorrhagic strokes, caused by the rupture of a blood vessel. Risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and lack of physical activity.
Recognizing stroke symptoms early (often summarized as FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911) and seeking immediate treatment can improve outcomes and prevent severe complications.
6. Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases
- Number of deaths in 2022: 147,382
- Rate in 2022: 34.3
- Percent: 4.5
This category includes chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. These diseases affect the lungs and airways, making it hard to breathe over time. COPD is the most common of these, often caused by long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and chemicals.
Other risk factors include asthma and genetics (like in the case of Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency). Symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and mucus production worsen as the disease progresses.
Treatment focuses on symptom management, smoking cessation, medications, and sometimes oxygen therapy.
7. Alzheimer’s Disease
- Number of deaths in 2022: 120,122
- Rate in 2022: 28.9
- Percent: 3.7
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, and the risk increases with age.
The disease is characterized by the buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, leading to the death of brain cells.
In the later stages, individuals with Alzheimer’s may lose the ability to carry on conversations, respond to their environment, or control bodily functions. There is currently no cure, but treatments can temporarily improve symptoms or slow progression.
Research continues into finding better treatment options, with an emphasis on early diagnosis and care management.
8. Diabetes Mellitus
- Number of deaths in 2022: 101,209
- Rate in 2022: 24.1
- Percent: 3.1
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). It’s a serious health concern because it can lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and nerve damage.
The two main types are Type 1 and Type 2, with Type 2 being far more common. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity are major risk factors for Type 2 diabetes.
Managing diabetes involves keeping blood sugar levels in check through medication, insulin, lifestyle changes, and regular medical checkups.
9. Nephritis, Nephrotic Syndrome & Nephrosis
- Number of deaths in 2022: 57,937
- Rate in 2022: 13.8
- Percent: 1.8
These are kidney diseases that severely impact kidney function. Nephritis is inflammation of the kidneys, which can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or toxins. Nephrotic syndrome refers to the kidneys leaking too much protein into the urine, leading to swelling and increased risk of infections.
Nephrosis is a more general term for kidney damage that results in the poor functioning of these vital organs. Without proper treatment, these conditions can lead to kidney failure.
Risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases like lupus.
10. Chronic Liver Disease & Cirrhosis
- Number of deaths in 2022: 54,803
- Rate in 2022: 13.8
- Percent: 1.7
Chronic liver disease encompasses various conditions that lead to the gradual destruction of liver tissue over time. One of the most severe outcomes of chronic liver disease is cirrhosis, which is the scarring of the liver.
Cirrhosis can result from long-term alcohol abuse, hepatitis infections (especially hepatitis B and C), or fatty liver disease. When the liver becomes scarred and damaged, it can no longer perform essential functions like detoxifying the body, digesting food, and regulating metabolism.
Treatment includes managing the underlying causes, such as reducing alcohol intake, treating infections, or losing weight.
These leading causes of death in the country show that both chronic diseases and unexpected accidents have a big impact on people’s lives. Staying informed helps us work to reduce the risks and live healthier lives.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
