WHO Report Highlights The Top 10 Causes Of Death, Check Out Grim Statistics!

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The World Health Organization (WHO) is the United Nations agency working to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable. It has long been a pivotal entity in tracking global health trends and statistics. Also, it leads global efforts to expand universal health coverage.

In 2021, the top 10 causes of death accounted for 39 million deaths or 57% of the total 68 million deaths worldwide, according to a report by WHO.

At a global level, 7 of the 10 leading causes of death in 2021 were noncommunicable diseases, accounting for 38% of all deaths, or 68% of the top 10 causes. Let us know about them in detail.

1. Ischaemic Heart Disease

The top cause was Ischaemic Heart Disease. This in 2021 had caused about 13 percent of global deaths as per WHO.

Ischaemic heart disease (IHD), also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), is one of the leading causes of death globally. This condition arises when the blood supply to the heart muscle is reduced due to blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries, usually caused by a buildup of fatty deposits known as plaques. The reduced blood flow can lead to symptoms like chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and in severe cases, heart attacks.

2. COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic which began in 2021 alone had caused the deaths of 8.8 million people in 2021. The data from 2022 and 2023 due to COVID-19 have not been concluded in this. 2022 however saw a higher number of deaths cases.

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, emerged in late 2019 and rapidly became a global pandemic. The virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face, particularly the eyes, nose, or mouth. COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe and may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

3. Brain Stroke

Brain stroke caused about 10 percent of the global deaths in the year 2021, as per WHO data.

A brain stroke, commonly referred to as a stroke, is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced. This deprives brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cells to die within minutes. Strokes can lead to significant neurological damage and are one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Understanding the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options is crucial for both prevention and timely intervention.

4. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) caused about 5 percent of the global deaths in the year 2021, as per WHO.

COPD is a progressive lung disease that obstructs airflow from the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It encompasses two main conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema, both of which contribute to the narrowing of the airways and reduction in lung function. COPD is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and it significantly impacts the quality of life of those affected. Early diagnosis and proper management are key to improving outcomes and slowing disease progression.

5. Lower Respiratory Infections

Aside from COVID-19, lover respiratory disease is one of the fastest communicable disease which caused about 2.5 million lives in 2021. However, WHO says that the number is lesser than 2000.

Lower respiratory infections (LRIs) are infections that affect the airways and lungs, including conditions such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. These infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly among young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Understanding the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options is essential for effective management and prevention.

6. Trachea, Bronchus And Lung Cancers

Trachea, bronchus and lung cancers deaths have increased in the year 2021 as compared to 2000, says WHO. It caused 1.9 million deaths worldwide.

Trachea, bronchus, and lung cancers, collectively referred to as lung cancer, are among the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. These cancers originate in the respiratory system, affecting the trachea (windpipe), bronchi (the large airways branching from the trachea into the lungs), and lung tissues. The vast majority of lung cancers are linked to smoking, but non-smokers can also develop these cancers due to other risk factors. Early detection and treatment are critical to improving survival rates.

7. Alzheimer's Disease And Other Dementias

According to WHO, Alzheimer's disease and other dementia's cause 1.8 million deaths in 2021.

Alzheimer's disease and other dementias represent a group of neurodegenerative disorders, causing a progressive decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. Dementias are not a normal part of aging, although the risk increases with age.

8. Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus has seen an exponential rise since 2000 and WHO reports that there has been a 95 percent rise in deaths due to this disease.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It occurs either because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels, or because the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin. Diabetes is a major global health concern, affecting millions of people and leading to serious complications if not managed properly.

9. Kidney

Between the year 2000 and 2021, deaths caused by kidney diseases have increased by 95 percent according to WHO.

Kidney diseases encompass a range of conditions that affect the kidneys' ability to function properly. The kidneys play a critical role in filtering waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood, which are then excreted in urine. When the kidneys are damaged or compromised, it can lead to a buildup of harmful substances in the body, affecting overall health.

10. Tuberculosis (TB)

Last but not the least, Tuberculosis has been termed as the 10th disease that has caused deaths on a global level.

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. TB is a major global health concern, particularly in developing countries, and is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide. Although it is a serious condition, TB is preventable and treatable with proper medical care.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.