Beware: No.1 Cause of Death in Utah Revealed

It’s 2024 now and many Utahns are looking into a healthier lifestyle and how to maintain their resolutions. Here are some health stats you should be aware of.  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention keeps statistics on causes of death in each state. Though the last updated stats are from 2017, they are important to keep in mind, especially for those who are looking to change their lifestyle this year.  

According to the CDC, the number one cause of death in Utah is heart disease. There were 3,749 deaths caused by heart disease in 2017 and the state ranked 33rd in the nation. After heart disease, the second worst killer in Utah is cancer followed by accidents.  

So, for those working toward a healthier lifestyle in Utah (and in general), the National Health Service has a few tips on how to help prevent coronary heart disease. It all starts with diet; many make resolutions to eat healthier, so this is a great way to start.  

Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol are great ways to start 2024.  

You’ll want to start by staying away from or at least lowering your intake of foods that are high in saturated fat. This will include foods like sausage, butter, ghee, cream, cakes, and hard cheese. Some unsaturated fats you can replace those foods with are avocados, oily fish, nuts and seeds. They may not sound as fun but are better for you.  

Some other ways to help prevent heart disease include getting more physically active. If you struggle with going to a gym, find an alternative place you like to go. This might be going for walks, hikes, biking, or even getting some gym equipment for your home.  

If you partake in smoking, you’ll want to quit as that definitely contributes to heart disease. If you drink, you’ll want to cut down or just stick to the recommended amount and make sure you aren’t binge drinking.  

Start the new year off with some healthier habits in Utah. Happy 2024!