Leading cause of death of women
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Summary
10 papers analyzed
Some studies suggest cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death among women, while other studies highlight cancer, autoimmune diseases, and dementia as significant contributors depending on age and region.
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Leading Causes of Death Among Women
Cardiovascular Disease: The Primary Threat
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among women in the United States, accounting for approximately one in every three female deaths . Despite increased awareness and grassroots campaigns, the burden of CVD in women has not significantly decreased over the past decade. This condition remains understudied, under-recognized, underdiagnosed, and undertreated, highlighting a critical need for more focused research and healthcare interventions. Specific cardiovascular conditions such as myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries, spontaneous coronary artery dissection, and stress-induced cardiomyopathy are more prevalent in women. Additionally, heart disease predominantly affects older women, with the majority of deaths occurring in those aged 85 and older.
Cancer: A Significant Mortality Factor
Cancer is another leading cause of death among women, particularly affecting those under 80 years of age. In the Republic of Georgia, for instance, cancer accounts for a significant portion of noncommunicable disease-related deaths among women of reproductive age. Breast cancer, cervical cancer, and uterine cancer are among the top specific causes of death in this demographic. In the United States, cancer mortality rates are higher than those for heart disease among Hispanic, Asian and Pacific Islander, and American Indian and Alaska Native women. This indicates a need for targeted cancer prevention and treatment strategies across different racial and ethnic groups.
Autoimmune Diseases: A Hidden Threat
Autoimmune diseases are a leading cause of death among young and middle-aged women in the United States, often surpassing the mortality rates of other recognized leading causes of death in women under 65 years. This highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing autoimmune conditions as a significant health threat in this population.
Maternal Mortality: Drug-Related Deaths and Suicide
In California, drug-related deaths and suicide are major contributors to maternal mortality, particularly in the postpartum period. These causes account for a substantial portion of maternal deaths, with non-Hispanic White women and those on Medicaid being particularly vulnerable. This underscores the need for enhanced clinical attention and preventive measures to address mental health and substance abuse issues among new mothers.
Dementia: A Growing Concern in England
In England, dementia has overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death among women, reflecting a shift in the health landscape. This change emphasizes the growing impact of neurodegenerative diseases on women's health and the need for increased research and healthcare resources to manage and prevent dementia.
Homicide: The Role of Intimate Partner Violence
Homicide is a leading cause of death for women under 44 years in the United States, with a significant proportion of these deaths being related to intimate partner violence (IPV). Non-Hispanic Black and American Indian/Alaska Native women experience the highest rates of homicide, highlighting the need for targeted IPV prevention programs and better access to intervention services.
Conclusion
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women, followed closely by cancer, particularly in younger age groups. Autoimmune diseases, maternal mortality due to drug-related deaths and suicide, dementia, and homicide also represent significant health threats. Addressing these issues requires targeted research, prevention, and treatment strategies tailored to the unique needs of women across different age groups and ethnic backgrounds.
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