A new study reveals West Virginia has the highest heart disease death rate in the United States. The research analyzed 2023 heart disease mortality data from the National Safety Council’s Injury Facts. Deaths per 100,000 residents were calculated to determine which states are most affected.
Quick Highlights
- Oklahoma and Mississippi follow closely, reporting 294 and 287 deaths per 100,000 residents, respectively.
- West Virginia has the highest heart disease death rate in the nation, with 296 deaths per 100,000 residents in 2023.
- Alaska reported the lowest death rate at 125 deaths per 100,000 residents
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for American adults, and it has been the leading cause of death in the U.S. for decades. An estimated 82.6 million Americans have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease, with approximately 695,000 deaths annually. It’s also a major contributor to decreased quality of life, disability, and economic costs. The American Heart Association predicts that by 2050, over 6 in 10 Adults will have some form of cardiovascular disease.
Recent reports suggest that most Americans don’t know the risks of developing heart disease, or that many of the heart disease risk factors can be modified through lifestyle changes and medical interventions. These lifestyle modifications can include but are not limited to managing blood pressure and cholesterol, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, keeping stress under control, getting adequate sleep, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity.
State Highlights
West Virginia ranks first in the nation for heart disease deaths, with 296 deaths per 100,000 residents, 40.28% higher than the national average of 211. The Mountain State, with a population of 1,770,071, reported 5,244 deaths from cardiovascular conditions in 2023.
Oklahoma comes in second, logging 294 deaths per 100,000 residents — about 39.34% above the national benchmark. Among its 4,053,824 residents, the Sooner State saw 11,913 lives lost to heart disease in 2023.
Mississippi claims third, with 287 deaths per 100,000 people — 36.02% higher than the national rate. Out of 2,939,690 residents, the Magnolia State recorded 8,441 heart disease-related deaths in 2023.
Alabama takes the fourth spot, reporting 286 deaths per 100,000 residents — around 35.55% more than the national average. With a population of 5,108,468, the state saw 14,587 deaths due to heart-related illnesses in 2023.
Arkansas ranks fifth, registering 275 deaths per 100,000 residents — 30.33% above the U.S. average. The Natural State, home to over 3,067,732 people, recorded 8,443 cardiovascular deaths in 2023.
Michigan (6th) recorded 261 heart disease deaths per 100,000 residents, followed by Louisiana (7th) at 260 deaths per 100,000 residents, Tennessee (8th) at 252 per 100,000 residents, Maine (9th) at 249 per 100,000 residents, and Missouri (10th) at 244 per 100,000 residents.
Table of Extended Results
Looking at the study, a spokesperson Anidjar & Levine commented:
“The study reveals that states like West Virginia, Oklahoma, and Mississippi have significantly higher heart disease death rates compared to the national average. This highlights the need for targeted health initiatives, improved healthcare access, and increased public awareness about heart disease prevention.”
“Public health authorities must prioritize cardiovascular health, while individuals are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle, monitor their heart health, and seek regular screenings.”
Methodology
This study utilized data from the National Safety Council’s Injury Facts to assess the prevalence of heart disease-related deaths across all 50 U.S. states. The number of deaths recorded in 2023 was compared against each state’s population to calculate death rates per 100,000 residents. These rates were then used to determine the top 10 states in America where residents face the highest risk of dying from heart disease.
This article was created for WHN at the News Desk using some of the information provided by Nicholas Romano on behalf of the Florida-based personal injury lawyers at the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine Research.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
