5 Main Causes of Death in the World
Global health has evolved significantly with advances in medicine and technology, but some diseases continue to be the leading cause of global mortality. The World Health Organization (WHO) regularly analyzes the factors that most affect life expectancy and highlights the leading causes of death worldwide.
In this article, we explore the top five causes of death globally , their risk factors, and how we can prevent them.
1. Cardiovascular Diseases ❤️
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for approximately 32% of all global deaths . Heart attacks (myocardial infarctions) and strokes are the most common within this group of diseases.
Main risk factors:
✅ Arterial hypertension (high blood pressure)
✅ High cholesterol
✅ Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
✅ Sedentary lifestyle
✅ Unhealthy eating
How to prevent?
✔️ Practice physical exercise regularly
✔️ Have a balanced diet rich in vegetables and healthy fats
✔️ Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption
✔️ Control blood pressure and cholesterol
2. Cancer 🎗️
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide , responsible for millions of deaths annually. Among the most common types are lung, breast, colon, and liver cancer .
Main risk factors:
✅ Smoking (main cause of lung cancer)
✅ Excessive sun exposure (skin cancer)
✅ Diet rich in saturated fats and processed foods
✅ Excessive alcohol consumption
✅ Lack of preventive screenings
How to prevent?
✔️ Have regular screenings (mammography, colonoscopy, dermatological exams)
✔️ Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol consumption
✔️ Maintain a healthy and balanced diet
✔️ Use sunscreen daily
3. Chronic Respiratory Diseases 🫁
Chronic respiratory diseases , such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, and severe respiratory infections , are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Smoking is the most important risk factor for these diseases.
Main risk factors:
✅ Smoking (cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and other derivatives)
✅ Air pollution and chemical exposure
✅ Frequent respiratory infections
✅ Low immunity, especially in the elderly and chronically ill
How to prevent?
✔️ Quit smoking and avoid polluted environments
✔️ Maintain good air quality at home and in the workplace
✔️ Treat respiratory infections quickly
✔️ Get vaccinated against flu and pneumonia
4. Diabetes 🍭
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease on the rise worldwide, affecting more and more people due to the rise in obesity and sedentary lifestyles. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, kidney failure, and amputations.
Main risk factors:
✅ Diet rich in sugars and saturated fats
✅ Overweight and obesity
✅ Lack of physical exercise
✅ Family history of diabetes
How to prevent?
✔️ Reduce consumption of sugars and processed foods
✔️ Practice physical activity regularly
✔️ Monitor blood glucose levels
✔️ Maintain a healthy weight
