Heart health is improving overall, but stroke deaths are rising among young adults

An American Heart Association report says overall cardiovascular deaths in the U.S. returned toward pre‑COVID levels in 2023, while stroke death rates among 25‑ to 34‑year‑olds have continued to rise.

New data from the American Heart Association show a mixed picture: overall cardiovascular deaths in the U.S. fell in 2023 toward pre‑pandemic levels, yet some younger groups are experiencing worse outcomes. Experts cited in the report attribute part of the broader improvement to the resumption of routine care after COVID‑19 disruptions. At the same time, stroke deaths among adults ages 25 to 34 have increased compared with a decade earlier. Childhood obesity rose in recent years while adult obesity rates leveled off. Key findings: - The AHA reported 915,973 cardiovascular deaths in the U.S. in 2023 and noted an overall decline from 2022 as healthcare utilization returned to more normal patterns. - Stroke death rates among adults ages 25–34 were reported as higher than a decade ago, with the article noting an increase of about 8.3% since 2013 and a low absolute rate in that age group. - Adult obesity prevalence was reported as roughly 50% in 2021–23, while childhood obesity increased to about 28.1% over the same period. - Experts in the article emphasized that many adults still have high blood pressure and that more research is needed to determine why stroke rates are rising among young adults. Summary: The AHA data indicate an overall improvement in cardiovascular mortality in 2023 alongside rising stroke deaths in young adults and increasing childhood obesity. The causes of the younger‑adult stroke rise are not fully explained in the report, and further study is called for. Undetermined at this time.