A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed a significant decrease in Covid-related deaths in the U.S. in 2023, with a 69% reduction compared to the previous year. Covid dropped from the 4th leading cause of death in 2022 to the 10th in 2023. The virus was responsible for over 76,000 deaths last year, down from around 245,000 in 2022. Covid deaths decreased among all age groups and racial and ethnic groups, with people ages 85 and older still disproportionately affected.
White people had the highest rate of Covid deaths in 2023, with nearly 20 out of every 100,000 people succumbing to the virus. The CDC’s findings are based on death certificates, and a final report is expected to be released after further data analysis. Despite the decrease in Covid deaths, the virus remains a threat, particularly to older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions.
Heart disease remained the leading cause of death in the U.S., followed by cancer and unintentional injuries. While heart disease deaths decreased in 2023, cancer deaths slightly increased. Some types of cancer, such as breast, kidney, pancreatic, prostate, uterine, liver (in women), colorectal, and cervical (in young adults) cancer, saw rising rates.
The CDC noted that the pandemic may still be impacting other leading causes of death, such as drug overdose and alcohol-related diseases. Recommendations include getting an updated Covid vaccine when available and continued vigilance, as Covid immunity can wane over time.
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