Hypertension-Related CVD Death Rates Skyrocketed Among Young Adults in the US Between 2000 and 2023

Strategic Insights -

A new study published in the Annals of Epidemiology has shed light on the rising trend of hypertension-related cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths among young adults in the United States. According to the research, which analyzed national mortality data from 2000 to 2023, the age-standardized CVD and heart disease death rates among 18-34-year-olds remained relatively stable, while stroke death rates decreased. However, a striking 78.5% increase in hypertension-related CVD death rates was observed during the same period.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed national mortality data from the National Vital Statistics System to identify CVD, heart disease, stroke, and hypertension-related CVD deaths among US residents aged 18-34 from 2000 to 2023.
  • Crude and age-standardized death rates were calculated overall and by age group, sex, and race and ethnicity.
  • Temporal trends were calculated as percent change using a log-linear model, revealing a 78.5% increase in hypertension-related CVD death rates among young adults.
  • The patterns across demographic groups were broadly similar, with stability or modest declines in CVD death rates among young adults.
  • The study concluded that the findings merit public health action and underscore the need for better identification and management of hypertension and other CVD risk factors among young adults.

Statistics:

  • Age-standardized CVD death rates among young adults did not statistically change between 2000 and 2023, with a percent change of -2.2% (95% CI: -7.8, 3.7).
  • Heart disease death rates also remained relatively stable, with a percent change of -2.4% (95% CI: -8.3%, 3.8%).
  • Stroke death rates decreased by 15.7% (95% CI: -21.0%, -10.0%).
  • Hypertension-related CVD death rates increased by 78.5% (95% CI: 63.6%, 94.7%).

Sources:

  • The study was published in the Annals of Epidemiology in 2025 (Cardiovascular disease mortality trends in young adults aged 18-34 years, United States, 2000-2023).
  • The research was conducted by National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • Additional authors include Nicholas Sutton, Rebecca C. Woodruff, LaTonia C. Richardson, Janet S. Wright, and Fatima Coronado.