Prevention can start at any age. Whether you are healthy in your 20s or are in middle age with a chronic disease, it is never too early or too late to start leading a healthy life that enables you to live your life to the fullest.
This post and the related episode of First Line cover the top causes of morbidity in the U.S. (which are also common causes worldwide). Injury and accidents are the 3rd leading cause of death according to the CDC and are the leading cause for people ages 1 to 44! Chronic lower respiratory diseases, stroke (cerebrovascular diseases), Alzheimer’s disease, and Diabetes are ranked 4-7. Estimates place COVID into the top 10, at least at its peak in 2020.
Mortality from accidents includes motor vehicle accidents and unintentional injury, poisoning, and falls. Death from motor vehicle accidents alone is the leading cause of death between the ages of 1 and 54. The CDC states that seat belts effectively reduce injuries from collisions and save lives.
Impaired driving and distracted driving contribute to the prevalence of accidental death. Impaired driving is not just with alcohol but also with other substances like marijuana. Some steps to take for safety to prevent impaired driving include designating a non-drinking driver, getting a ride home or calling a ride share when impaired, and refusing to let a friend drive while intoxicated. Distracted driving is not limited to taking your eyes off the road while texting. Taking your hands off the wheel is also considered distracted driving. Additionally, there is a cognitive distraction when you take your mind wanders. Steps to avoid distracted driving include avoiding multitasking (adjusting mirrors, changing music, eating, using the phone, texting/emailing, reading a text/email) and speaking up if you are a passenger with a distracted driver.
Diabetes is a common metabolic disorder in the top 10 causes of death in the U.S. I spoke more about diabetes in several episodes of First Line, one focusing on prevention and one focusing on treatment. Risk factors for type II diabetes include prediabetes, BMI > 25, age > 45 years, family history in a first-degree relative, physical inactivity (exercise < 3 times a week), history of gestational diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Prevention of type II diabetes is accomplished with lifestyle changes like losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and regularly exercising.
Suicide is also a top cause of mortality (ranked number 12). A discussion on suicide warrants a separate post, but I wanted to include a few resources to receive help for mental health or safety:
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357). SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and substance use disorders.
The Suicide Prevention Lifeline connects callers to trained crisis counselors (800-273-8255) or 988.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides 24/7 crisis intervention, safety planning, and information on domestic violence (800-799-7233).
Hear more in the related episode of First Line here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the leading causes of accidental deaths in the U.S.?
The top causes of accidental death in the U.S. include motor vehicle accidents, falls, unintentional injury, and poisoning. Motor vehicle accidents alone are the leading cause of death for people aged 1-44, and impaired or distracted driving contributes significantly to these fatalities.
How can I prevent type 2 diabetes?
Prevention of type 2 diabetes can be achieved through healthy lifestyle choices. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity (at least three times a week) are key to reducing your risk.
What can I do to avoid distracted driving?
To prevent distracted driving, avoid multitasking while behind the wheel. This includes refraining from texting, adjusting mirrors, changing music, or eating while driving.
Where can I find help if I am struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts?
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, help is available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) offer confidential, free support 24/7.