CDC Reports Decline in Preventable Deaths From Key Causes

Why it matters locally: Given West Virginia's struggles with heart disease, cancer, and respiratory illnesses, this national trend towards decline in preventable deaths could indicate positive changes in public health outcomes for the state if mirrored locally. The state's high rates of chronic lower respiratory diseases, in particular, make these national findings relevant to ongoing health initiatives.

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Atlanta — Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a decline in potentially preventable deaths from three of the five leading causes of death in the United States between 2010 and 2014. These "preventable deaths," as defined by the CDC, refer to premature deaths that could have been avoided through public health interventions and preventative measures. The CDC analysis examined mortality data related to heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic lower respiratory diseases, and unintentional injuries. The findings suggest progress in reducing premature deaths associated with heart disease, cancer, and stroke during the specified timeframe. Further details regarding specific rates of decline and detailed data are expected to be released by the agency in subsequent reports.