Average Life Expectancy and Leading Causes of Death in U.S. Males: A Closer Look

The average life expectancy for males in the United States has seen a significant decline from 2020 to 2021, dropping from 74 to 73 years—the lowest it has been since 1996. Experts attribute this decline largely to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has become the fourth leading cause of death in U.S. males. In 2022, the top three leading causes of death were heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries, particularly accidental drug overdoses.

The decline in life expectancy has been more pronounced in certain demographic groups, with American Indian and Alaskan Natives experiencing a 6.6-year drop, followed by Hispanic Americans (4.2 years), Black Americans (4 years), White Americans (2.4 years), and Asian Americans (2.1 years). Factors such as lack of access to healthcare, preventive care, poverty, and food insecurity have contributed to these disparities.

Heart disease has consistently been the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women since 1950. In 2019, one in every four male deaths was attributed to heart disease. Other leading causes of death in males include cancer, unintentional deaths, COVID-19, and stroke.

To improve life expectancy and reduce the risk of these leading causes of death, adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and avoiding risk-taking behaviors is essential. Additionally, addressing disparities in healthcare access and quality among different racial and ethnic groups is crucial to improving overall life expectancy in the United States.