The latest study led by Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) has uncovered a disturbing trend in US mortality rates compared to other high-income countries. The research, published in JAMA Health Forum, revealed that over 1.5 million “missing Americans” in 2022 and 2023 could have been saved if US mortality rates were on par with those of its peer nations.
The term “missing Americans” refers to individuals who would still be alive if the US had mortality rates similar to the average rates in other high-income countries. This disparity in mortality rates has been a long-standing issue, with excess deaths on the rise for decades. Even during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the trend of increasing excess deaths continued, particularly affecting working-age adults.
In 2022 and 2023, the number of excess deaths in the US remained significantly higher than in the years preceding the pandemic. While the peak of excess deaths was observed in 2021, the numbers in 2023 were still alarmingly high, indicating a persistent and concerning trend.
Dr. Jacob Bor, the lead author of the study and an associate professor of global health and epidemiology at BUSPH, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the US has been facing a health crisis for decades with outcomes far worse than other high-income countries. The impact of excess deaths is not evenly distributed, with 46% of deaths among individuals under 65 years old being potentially avoidable if US mortality rates were in line with its peers.
The study underscores the urgent need to address the underlying factors contributing to the disparity in mortality rates between the US and other wealthy nations. Dr. Andrew Stokes, a senior author of the study and an associate professor of global health at BUSPH, highlighted the role of policy neglect and systemic failures in driving excess deaths in the US.
Looking ahead, the researchers advocate for investments in universal healthcare, robust safety nets, and evidence-based public health policies to improve population health outcomes. While the challenges facing the US are significant, learning from the successes of other countries and implementing effective policies is crucial in reducing health inequities and preventing unnecessary deaths.
As the nation navigates through ongoing health crises, including drug-related deaths and preventable health issues, addressing the root causes of excess mortality remains a top priority. By prioritizing public health, scientific research, and social supports, the US can strive towards a future where preventable deaths are minimized, and the overall health of the population is improved.
