New mortality data from the federal government suggests that life expectancy probably hit another record high in 2025, as death rates have continued to fall since the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Causes of Death
The top causes of death in the US in 2025 followed longstanding patterns: Heart disease led with nearly 695,000 deaths, followed by cancer with nearly 623,000 deaths. Unintentional injuries, which includes drug overdoses, were the third leading cause of death.
Overdose deaths are still high — about 70,000 people died from an overdose in 2025, preliminary CDC data shows — but experts say that sharp declines probably played a large role in bringing the age-adjusted death rate down in the US.
Longevity Factors
Research shows that some of the best ways to help yourself live a long, healthy life involve more basic habits that help prevent some of the leading causes of death. Staying active, eating a plant-based diet, and getting enough sleep are all linked to improved longevity outcomes.
A 2023 study found that sleeping seven to nine hours a night was linked to improved longevity outcomes by 18%. Eating a plant-based diet increased people’s chances of living longer by 21%. Having tools for managing stress on a daily basis is linked to 22% improvement and positive social interactions another 5%.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
