Heart Disease Continues as Leading Cause of Death in the U.S., Driven by Rising Risk Factors

A new report highlights the alarming prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which threaten progress in combating cardiovascular disease.

In 2022, 941,652 Americans died from cardiovascular disease, an increase of over 10,000 deaths from 2021, according to the American Heart Association's annual report.
Heart disease and stroke combined claim more lives than all cancers and accidental deaths, with one person dying from heart disease every 34 seconds in the U.S.
Key risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes are on the rise, with 72% of adults having unhealthy weight and nearly 57% diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.
Disparities in risk factors show Black women have the highest rates of obesity and high blood pressure, while Hispanic men lead in diabetes prevalence.
Experts warn of a projected 300% increase in cardiovascular-related healthcare costs by 2050, emphasizing the need for prevention, equitable access to care, and tailored interventions for high-risk populations.