4 Top Causes of Death in the U.S. (+ How to Lower Your Risk)

When you think about how people die every year in the U.S., the usual suspects come to mind. Diseases are often one of the biggest culprits. Heart attack, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and now COVID-19 have taken a lot of loved ones away from us. These are natural ways to die.

Fatal accidents in motor vehicles have gone down in the last 50 years, but they are still one of the leading causes of premature death in the U.S. Other types of vehicle accidents are also to blame for premature deaths. Staying safe while boating, skiing, surfing, and performing other similar activities needs to be made a priority.

We'll talk about some of the top causes of death and how you can make sure you lower your risk of them happening to you. Here's how to make some positive changes and live longer as a result.

#1 - Lung Cancer

Cancer kills hundreds of thousands of Americans every year, and lung cancer is one of the main causes of cancer deaths. About 1 in every 15 people in the country is diagnosed with lung cancer at some point in their life. While treatments have improved for the disease, it still runs rampant in 2022.

So what can people do to try and prevent lung cancer? Living a healthy lifestyle is one of the main ways to avoid lung cancer. It has been made very clear certain activities are especially risky in regard to developing lung cancer. Smoking cigarettes and vaping are activities to be avoided.

The toxins and chemicals in cigarettes are dangerous to our lungs. While smoking has been one of the ways for Americans to relieve stress through the years, it is important for parents to encourage their children to find other outlets.

Smoking is a habit that is sometimes developed early in adolescence. When young people continue to smoke for decades after this, it makes it more likely that they will develop lung cancer or another disease at some point down the line.

Alternatives to smoking usually involve putting other things in your mouth to distract you from wanting a cigarette. Sugarless candy, nuts, grains, or other small foods are good in moderation.

#2 - Diabetes

According to the CDC, diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. Diabetes is a disease in which the body can't regulate its blood sugar on its own. Sometimes diabetes patients have to inject insulin into their bloodstream because the pancreas can't perform this task like in non-diabetes patients.

If diabetes is ignored, many complications can occur and even lead to death. Eye problems like glaucoma, nerve damage in the extremities, and increased risk of heart disease are some of the main things that can happen to people who have uncontrolled diabetes.

There is no way to prove exactly what causes diabetes. There are certain lifestyle choices to be made both before and after developing the disease to help prevent death, though.

Staying in Shape With Diabetes

Exercise and a good diet are always great ways to stay in shape and improve all parts of your health. Cardiovascular health has been linked to a person's risk for diabetes. Diets high in sugars and carbohydrates also lead to a higher risk of diabetes.

You should talk to your doctor about other ways to prevent diabetes or manage it after you have already been diagnosed. Having good mental health immediately after diagnosis will help you to keep up with your exercise, eating habits, and medicine intake.

People who suffer from depression after diagnosis will have a hard time managing their illness, and in turn, it could get worse. Speaking to a therapist about mental health problems caused by diabetes is important.

#3 - Car Accidents

Car accidents are sometimes the first non-natural cause of death people think about. People get into all types of car accidents throughout the year. Some people are speeding. Other folks are distracted while they are behind the wheel. Cellphones and technology have made distracted driving an issue worldwide.

There are many ways you can avoid getting into a wreck and dying behind the wheel. Always follow the rules of the road. Drive the speed limit and don't run red lights. Wear your seat belt and have a car with extra safety features, such as lane assist and correction technology.

Keep your eyes on the road, even if you are in a foreign country and distracted by the new environment you're in. If you are feeling unsafe behind the wheel, you should find other ways to get around. Taking a bus or a train is a cheap option.

If you do still want to drive even though you're afraid, take a defensive driving course to improve your skills. The instructors will talk about how to stay calm, avoid fights on the road, and make smart decisions when others are driving dangerously. It can even lead to a defensive driving discount on your auto insurance.

#4 - Heart Attack

Heart attacks are the leading cause of cardiovascular death in the U.S. Much like diabetes, heart attacks and other heart issues can possibly be avoided with solid lifestyle choices. Find easy ways to incorporate exercise and activity into your morning routine. This means you might come to view movement the same as brushing your teeth or showering.

So many people avoid exercise because it doesn't fit into their schedule. Finding a natural way to include it in your life will decrease your risk of developing fatal conditions like heart disease and heart attacks.

There is no way to prevent death. There are only ways to decrease the risk of dying early. When it comes to disease, making great choices with your food and exercise routine will be the best way to increase your lifespan.

For accidents like getting into a car wreck, make sure you take driving seriously. Know the risks of getting behind the wheel and drive with skill and attention to detail. If you do all of these things, you could potentially live a longer and happier life.

(Photo : Shawn Laib)

Shawn Laib writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, AutoInsurance.org. He wants to help people change their lives with healthier habits and routines.