Chronic disease deaths rising among US young adults

The United States may perform the poorest among high-income countries in managing chronic diseases.

According to data reported in a study published in The Lancet, investigators uncovered a rising chronic disease-related mortality rate among U.S. adults aged 20 to 45 years and stagnation in the rate among those aged 45 to 65 years between 2010 and 2019. Although the overall risk of mortality from noncommunicable diseases prior to 80 years dropped in the group of 185 countries and territories included in the study, the decline was slower than in previous years, particularly in the United States and Germany — reflecting a loss of progress caused by an increase in neuropsychiatric condition-related deaths, lower investment in public health and barriers in accessing health care. Because about 30 million U.S. patients are required to travel long distances to visit their primary care physicians or hospitals, they may experience delays in screening, diagnoses and treatment.

However, in a news article from CNN, the investigators also revealed the success of novel diagnostic and treatment strategies in improving the rate of chronic disease-related mortality across high-income countries. Experts cited in the article emphasized that individuals should follow diets high in nutrition, avoid ultraprocessed foods and partake in beneficial mental health practices to improve their overall well-being.

Read more: CNN

The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.