A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that Covid deaths in the U.S. decreased by 69% from 2022 to 2023, making it the 10th leading cause of death last year, down from 4th in 2022. Covid was responsible for over 76,000 deaths in 2023, a significant decrease from the 245,000 deaths reported in 2022. Deaths due to Covid decreased across all age groups and racial and ethnic groups, with those aged 85 and older still representing a significant portion of deaths.
White people had the highest rate of Covid deaths in 2023, with nearly 20 out of every 100,000 people succumbing to the virus. While the numbers are based on preliminary estimates from death certificates, the CDC is expected to release a final report after further analysis. Despite the decline in Covid deaths, the virus continues to pose a threat, especially to older adults and those with underlying medical conditions.
Heart disease remained the leading cause of death in the U.S., with nearly 681,000 deaths in 2023. Cancer deaths also increased slightly, with over 613,000 deaths reported. While overall cancer deaths have been declining, certain types such as breast, kidney, pancreatic, and uterine cancer are on the rise, along with liver cancer in women and colorectal and cervical cancer in young adults.
The CDC researchers also noted that the pandemic may have impacted other leading causes of death, such as drug overdose and alcohol-related diseases, which could continue to affect unintentional injuries and chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. The CDC continues to recommend Covid vaccination to maintain immunity as the virus continues to evolve.
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