20 Health Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric is one of nature's most powerful healers. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. Tumeric has been used for over 2500 years in India, where it was most likely first used as a dye.
The medicinal properties of this spice have been slowly revealing themselves over the centuries. Long known for its anti-inflammatory properties, recent research has revealed that turmeric is a natural wonder, proving beneficial in the treatment of many different health conditions from cancer to Alzheimer's disease.
Here are 20 reasons to add turmeric to your diet:
1. It is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, useful in disinfecting cuts and burns.
2. When combined with cauliflower, it has shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer.
3. Prevented breast cancer from spreading to the lungs in mice.
4. May prevent melanoma and cause existing melanoma cells to commit suicide.
5. Reduces the risk of childhood leukemia.
6. Is a natural liver detoxifier.
7. May prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain.
8. May prevent metastases from occurring in many different forms of cancer.
9. It is a potent natural anti-inflammatory that works as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects.
10. Has shown promise in slowing the progression of multiple sclerosis in mice.
11. Is a natural painkiller and cox-2 inhibitor.
12. May aid in fat metabolism and help in weight management.
13. Has long been used in Chinese medicine as a treatment for depression.
14. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
15. Boosts the effects of chemo drug paclitaxel and reduces its side effects.
16. Promising studies are underway on the effects of turmeric on pancreatic cancer.
17. Studies are ongoing in the positive effects of turmeric on multiple myeloma.
18. Has been shown to stop the growth of new blood vessels in tumors.
19. Speeds up wound healing and assists in remodeling of damaged skin.
20. May help in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Turmeric can be taken in powder or pill form. It is available in pill form in most health food stores, usually in 250-500mg capsules.
Once you start using turmeric on a regular basis, it's fun to find new ways to use it in recipes. My favorite way to use it is to add a pinch of it to egg salad. It adds a nice flavor and gives the egg salad a rich yellow hue.
Contraindications: Turmeric should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction. Though turmeric is often used by pregnant women, it is important to consult with a doctor before doing so as turmeric can be a uterine stimulant.
Death 0 to 100 ……
Newborn Deaths
0 to 28 days- neonate
A newborn baby is called a "neonate" for the first 28 days of life. This first month is a relatively high risk period for babies.
Death rates: The overall infant (<1 year) death rate is 0.706% or 1-in-141. This rate is higher in the first 28 days and reduces to 0.188% or 1-in-531 after the neonatal period.
Top Ten Causes of Death:
For neonatal infants aged less than 28 days, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• disorders related to prematurity and low birth weight (23.1%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (20.8%),
• maternal pregnancy complications affecting newborn (7.4%),
• respiratory distress syndrome of newborn (5.6%),
• complications of placenta affecting newborn (5.4%),
• bacterial sepsis of newborn (3.5%),
• atelectasis (3.4%),
• in-uterus hypoxia and birth asphyxia (3.1%),
• neonatal hemorrhage (2.6%),
• necrotizing enterocolitis of newborn (1.9%) and
• other causes (23.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Infant Deaths
Under 1 year
Definitions of the term "infant" vary; many medical definitions define it as under 1 year. However, for practical purposes, a baby is an infant for at least 2 years, because this is the period during which they cannot communicate what is wrong with them. This fact makes infant conditions difficult to diagnose for parents and physicians alike. An infant is called a "neonate" for the first 28 days of life.
Death rates: The overall infant (<1 year) death rate is 0.706% or 1-in-141. This rate is higher in the first 28 days and reduces to 0.188% or 1-in-531 after the neonatal period (i.e. after 28 days of life). For ages 1-4 years, the death rate drops down to 0.034% (1 in 2,941) on average.
Top Ten Causes of Death: Causes of death differ for the different categories. Neonates are at highest risk with prematurity leading the list. Non-neonate infants are at a lower risk with SIDS the highest risk.
Neonates: For neonatal infants aged less than 28 days, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• disorders related to prematurity and low birth weight (23.1%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (20.8%),
• maternal pregnancy complications affecting newborn (7.4%),
• respiratory distress syndrome of newborn (5.6%),
• complications of placenta affecting newborn (5.4%),
• bacterial sepsis of newborn (3.5%),
• atelectasis (3.4%),
• in-uterus hypoxia and birth asphyxia (3.1%),
• neonatal hemorrhage (2.6%),
• necrotizing enterocolitis of newborn (1.9%) and
• other causes (23.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Infants and neonates: For infants aged less than 1 year, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (19.6%),
• disorders related to prematurity and low birth weight (15.7%),
• SIDS (9.5%),
• maternal pregnancy complications affecting newborn (5.0%),
• respiratory distress syndrome of newborn (4.0%),
• complications of placenta affecting newborn (3.7%),
• accidents (3.0%),
• bacterial sepsis of newborn (2.5%),
• circulatory system diseases (2.4%),
• atelectasis (2.3%), and
• other causes (32.4%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Non-neonate infants: After the first 28 days, the death rate drops to 0.188% or 1-in-531, and the top causes of death differ somewhat. For non-neonate infants, aged less than 1 year but older than 28 days, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• SIDS (26.5%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (19.4%),
• accidents (8.1%),
• circulatory system diseases (4.5%),
• septicemia (2.8%),
• homicide (2.8%),
• chronic respiratory disease from perinatal period (2.7%),
• digestive conditions including gastritis, duodenitis, non-infectious enteritis, and colitis (2.2%),
• meningitis (0.9%), and
• other causes (27.4%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Child Deaths
1 to 5 years
Childhood is a time of good health and fun times. After the first year of life, the death rate drops very low, to the lowest rate of any time of life of about 1 in 5,000.
Death rates: For ages 1-4 years, the death rate drops way down to 0.034% (1 in 2,941) on average, compared to 0.706% (1-in-141) for the first year of life. The death rates for 5-9 years are 0.017% (1 in 5,882), and for 10-14 years it is 0.021% (1 in 4,761).
Top Ten Causes of Death:
Age 1-4 years: For age 1-4 years the death rate is 0.034% (1 in 2,941) and the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (36.2%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (10.5%),
• cancer (8.0%),
• homicide (7.2%),
• heart disease (3.5%),
• influenza and pneumonia (2.5%),
• perinatal conditions (1.8%),
• septicemia (1.7%),
• non-malignant cancers (1.2%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (1.0%), and
• other causes (26.7%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Age 5-9 years: For ages 5-9 years, the death rate is 0.017% (1 in 5,882) and the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (42.0%),
• cancer (14.7%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (6.0%),
• homicide (5.4%),
• heart disease (3.3%),
• non-malignant cancers (1.8%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (1.4%),
• septicemia (1.4%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.3%),
• HIV (1.1%), and
• other causes (21.7%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Age 10-14 years:
Age 10-14 years: For ages 10-14 years, the death rate is 0.021% (1 in 4,761) and the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (39.6%),
• cancer (12.2%),
• homicide (6.0%),
• suicide (5.9%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (5.4%),
• heart disease (3.9%),
• chronic lower respiratory disease (2.2%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.1%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (0.9%),
• non-malignant cancers (0.9%), and
• other causes (21.9%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the Teens
Death rates: Fortunately, death occurs rarely in teens, at a rate of about 1 in 5,000 each year.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 10-14 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (39.6% of deaths),
• cancer (12.2%),
• homicide (6.0%),
• suicide (5.9%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (5.4%),
• heart disease (3.9%),
• chronic lower respiratory disease (2.2%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.1%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (0.9%),
• non-malignant cancers (0.9%), and
• other causes (21.9%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 15-19 years
For ages 15-19 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (48.5% of deaths),
• homicide (15.2%),
• suicide (11.7%),
• cancer (5.4%),
• heart diseases (3.4%),
• congenital conditions including chromosome conditions (1.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (0.8%),
• influenza and pneumonia (0.5%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (0.5%),
• non-malignant cancers (0.4%), and
• other causes (12.0%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 20s
Death rate: The overall rate of death in the 20's is only about 1 in 1,000 each year. In more detail, for ages 20-24 the death rate is 0.093% (1 in 1,075) and for 25-34 years 0.108% (1 in 925).
Top Ten Causes of Death: The main causes of death at this age are not diseases, but accidents, homicide, and suicide. For ages 20-24 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (41.3%),
• homicide (17.2%),
• suicide (13.5%),
• cancer (5.8%),
• heart disease (3.6%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (1.3%),
• HIV (1.0%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (0.7%),
• influenza and pneumonia (0.6%),
• diabetes (0.6%), and
• other causes (14.4%) 1
Even into the 30's, the top causes of death remain accidents, suicide, and homicide. For ages 25-34 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (29.0%),
• suicide (12.4%),
• homicide (10.3%),
• cancer (9.8%),
• heart disease (7.5%),
• HIV (6.6%),
• diabetes (1.4%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (1.4%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (1.1%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (1.0%), and
• other causes (19.5%) 1
Death in the 30s
Death is rare (about 1-in-500 to 1-in-1,000) and the main causes of death in the early 30's are accidents, suicide, and homicide, with cancer and heart disease getting into the top three places for the late 30's and early 40's.
Death Rate: Fortunately, death is rare in the 30's with an annual rate of about 1-in-1000 for ages 25-34 and 1-in-500 for ages 35-44.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 25-34 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (29.0%),
• suicide (12.4%),
• homicide (10.3%),
• cancer (9.8%),
• heart disease (7.5%),
• HIV (6.6%),
• diabetes (1.4%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (1.4%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (1.1%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (1.0%), and
• other causes (19.5%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 35-44 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (18.7%),
• accidents (17.1%),
• heart disease (15.2%),
• suicide (7.2%),
• HIV (7.0%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (3.7%),
• homicide (3.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (2.9%),
• diabetes (2.2%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.2%), and o
• ther causes (21.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 40s
Although the 40's are still times of activity and generally good health, certain health issues start to arise in many people. Serious chronic conditions start to become an issue, but death remains uncommon (about 1-in-500 to 1-in-250).
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 40's is 0.199% (1 in 502) for ages 35-44 years and 0.427% (1 in 234) for ages 45-54 years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 35-44 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (18.7%),
• accidents (17.1%),
• heart disease (15.2%),
• suicide (7.2%),
• HIV (7.0%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (3.7%),
• homicide (3.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (2.9%),
• diabetes (2.2%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.2%), and
• other causes (21.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 45-54 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (30.5%),
• heart disease (22.9%),
• accidents (7.6%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (4.2%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (3.6%),
• suicide (3.3%),
• diabetes (3.1%),
• HIV (2.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (2.0%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.1%), and
• other causes (19.1%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 50s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 50's is 0.427% (1 in 234) for ages 45-54 years and 1.021% (1 in 97) for ages 55-64 years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 45-54 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (30.5%),
• heart disease (22.9%),
• accidents (7.6%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (4.2%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (3.6%),
• suicide (3.3%),
• diabetes (3.1%),
• HIV (2.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (2.0%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.1%), and
• other causes (19.1%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 55-64 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (37.3%),
• heart disease (26.9%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.7%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (4.0%),
• diabetes (3.8%),
• accidents (3.0%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (2.4%),
• suicide (1.2%),
• kidney diseases (1.2%),
• septicemia (1.1%), and
• other causes (14.4%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 60s
Death rate: The annual rate of death is 1.021% (1 in 97) for ages 55-64 years, and 2.484% (1 in 40) for ages 65-74 years
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 55-64 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (37.3%),
• heart disease (26.9%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.7%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (4.0%),
• diabetes (3.8%),
• accidents (3.0%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (2.4%),
• suicide (1.2%),
• kidney diseases (1.2%),
• septicemia (1.1%), and
• other causes (14.4%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 65-74 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (33.7%),
• heart disease (28.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (7.2%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (5.3%),
• diabetes (3.7%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.5),
• kidney diseases (1.5%),
• septicemia (1.3%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (1.2%), and
• other causes (14.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 65 and over years (i.e. not just to 74), the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (33.8%),
• cancer (21.7%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (8.3%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (6.0%),
• influenza and pneumonia (3.2%),
• diabetes (2.9%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%), and
• other causes (16.9%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 70s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 70's is 2.484% (1 in 40) for age 65-74 years and 5.751% (1 in 17) for age 75-84 years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 65-74 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (33.7%),
• heart disease (28.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (7.2%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (5.3%),
• diabetes (3.7%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.5),
• kidney diseases (1.5%),
• septicemia (1.3%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (1.2%), and
• other causes (14.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 75-84 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (32.4%),
• cancer (23.3%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (8.2%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (7.0%),
• diabetes (3.1%),
• influenza and pneumonia (2.7%),
• Alzheimer's (2.3%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%), and
• other causes (16.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 80s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 80's is 5.751% (1 in 17) for ages 75-84 years and %15.475% (1 in 6) for ages 85+ years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 75-84 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (32.4%),
• cancer (23.3%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (8.2%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (7.0%),
• diabetes (3.1%),
• influenza and pneumonia (2.7%),
• Alzheimer's (2.3%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%), and
• other causes (16.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 85 and over years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (39.0%),
• cancer (11.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (10.4%),
• influenza and pneumonia (4.8%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.2%),
• Alzheimer's (3.9%)
• diabetes (2.0%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%) and
• other causes (19.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 90s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 90's is %15.475% (1 in 6) for ages 85+ years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 85 and over years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (39.0%),
• cancer (11.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (10.4%),
• influenza and pneumonia (4.8%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.2%),
• Alzheimer's (3.9)
• diabetes (2.0%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%) and
• other causes (19.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 100s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 90's is %15.475% (1 in 6) for ages 85+ years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 85 and over years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (39.0%),
• cancer (11.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (10.4%),
• influenza and pneumonia (4.8%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.2%),
• Alzheimer's (3.9)
• diabetes (2.0%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%) and
• other causes (19.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
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Death rate of diabetic
Deaths from Diabetes: 71,372 deaths in USA 2001 (CDC); 68,399 annual deaths or 2.9% of deaths (CDC/1999)
Cause of death rank: 6th leading cause of death in 1999 and 2000 (CDC).
Death rate extrapolations for USA for Diabetes: 71,372 per year, 5,947 per month, 1,372 per week, 195 per day, 8 per hour, 0 per minute, 0 per second. Note: this automatic extrapolation calculation uses the deaths statistic: 71,372 deaths in USA 2001 (CDC); 68,399 annual deaths or 2.9% of deaths (CDC/1999)
Average life years lost from Diabetes: 13.8 years (SEER)1; 15.4 in North Carolina2; 2.1 average YPLL/person for diabetes (underlying cause of death) in Michigan3.
The following are statistics from various sources about deaths and Diabetes:
• 31,602 male deaths in the USA 2000 (American Heart Association, 2002)
• Diabetes was the underlying cause of 69,301 deaths in the US 2000 (National Diabetes Statistics fact sheet, NIDDK, 2003)
• Diabetes contributed to 213,062 deaths in the US 2000 (National Diabetes Statistics fact sheet, NIDDK, 2003)
• Risk of death for diabetics is twice that of those without diabetes in the US (National Diabetes Statistics fact sheet, NIDDK, 2003)
• 71,372 people died from diabetes each year in the US 2001 (Deaths: Final Data for 2001, NCHS, CDC)
• 25.1 people per 100,000 population died from diabetes each year in the US 2001 (Deaths: Final Data for 2001, NCHS, CDC)
• Diabetes is ranked the sixth leading cause of death in the US 2001 (Deaths: Final Data for 2001, NCHS, CDC)
• Death statistics by age for diabetes:
o diabetes caused 2.9% of deaths for any age in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
o diabetes caused 0.6% of deaths for age 20-24 years in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
o diabetes caused 1.4% of deaths for age 25-34 years in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
o diabetes caused 2.2% of deaths for age 35-44 years in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
o diabetes caused 3.1% of deaths for age 45-54 years in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
o diabetes caused 3.8% of deaths for age 55-64 years in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
o diabetes caused 2.9% of deaths for age 65 and over years in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
o diabetes caused 3.7% of deaths for age 65-74 years in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
o diabetes caused 3.1% of deaths for age 75-84 years in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
o diabetes caused 2.0% of deaths for age 85 and over in USA 1999 [NVSR 2001]
• Diabetes caused 2,751 deaths in Australia in 1988 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2002)
• Caused 1,424 male deaths in Australia in 1988 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2002)
• Caused 1,327 female deaths in Australia in 1988 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2002)
• 2.2% of all deaths in Australia in 1988 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2002)
• 9.5 per 100,000 people in USA 2001 (NCHS, 2003)
• 0.7 per 100,000 Asian/Pacific Islander people died from diabetes in USA 2001 (NCHS, 2003)
• 23.0 per 100,000 white people died from diabetes in USA 2001 (NCHS, 2003)
• 23.1 per 100,000 women died from diabetes in USA 2001 (NCHS, 2003)
• 28.1 per 100,000 men died from diabetes in USA 2001 (NCHS, 2003)
• 36.7 per 100,000 Hispanic/Latino people died from diabetes in USA 2001 (NCHS, 2003)
• 40.4 per 100,000 American Indian or Alaska Native people died from diabetes in USA 2001 (NCHS, 2003)
• 49.2 per 100,000 black people died from diabetes in USA 2001 (NCHS, 2003)
• Fifth leading cause of death in women in the US (The National Women’s Health Information Center, CDC)
• Fourth leading cause of death in African American women in the US (The National Women’s Health Information Center, CDC)
• Fourth leading cause of death in Native American women in the US (The National Women’s Health Information Center, CDC)
• Fourth leading cause of death in Hispanic women in the US (The National Women’s Health Information Center, CDC)
• Sixth leading cause of death in Asian American women in the US(The National Women’s Health Information Center, CDC)
• Seventh leading cause of death in white women in the US (The National Women’s Health Information Center, CDC)
• 5,000 deaths from diabetes each year in Canada (Health Canada)
• Diabetes contributes to 25,000 deaths each year in Canada (Health Canada)
• Diabetes death statistics in Australia:
o Diabetes accounted for 2.5% of all deaths in Australia, 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 2.4% of all female deaths was due to diabetes in Australia 2002 (AIHW National Morbidity Database, Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 2.6% of all male deaths was due to diabetes in Australia 2002 (AIHW National Morbidity Database, Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o Diabetes was listed as the only cause of death in 1.7% of cases in Australia, 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 50% of deaths from diabetes also had heart disease as an associated cause of death in Australia, 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 22% of deaths from diabetes also had stroke as an associated cause of death in Australia, 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 15% of deaths from diabetes also had renal failure as an associated cause of death in Australia, 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o Diabetes was the associated cause of death in 24% of coronary heart disease deaths in Australia, 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o Diabetes was the associated cause of death in 8% of stroke deaths in Australia, 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o Diabetes was the underlying cause of 3,329 deaths in Australia, 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o Diabetes was the associated cause of 11,467 deaths in Australia, 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 1,558 women died from diabetes in Australia 2002 (AIHW National Morbidity Database, Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 1,771 men died from diabetes in Australia 2002 (AIHW National Morbidity Database, Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 13 women per 100,000 people died from diabetes in Australia 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 10 women per 100,000 people die of coronary heart disease or stroke related to diabetes in Australia 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 21 men per 100,000 people died from diabetes in Australia 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 136 indigenous men per 100,000 people died from diabetes in Australia 2001-2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 159 indigenous women per 100,000 people died from diabetes in Australia 2001-2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 19 non-English speaking women per 100,000 people died from diabetes in Australia 2001 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 24 non-English speaking men per 100,000 people died from diabetes in Australia 2001 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 17 non-English speaking women per 100,000 people die of coronary heart disease related to diabetes in Australia 2001 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 18 men per 100,000 people die of coronary heart disease related to diabetes in Australia 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 21 non-English speaking men per 100,000 people die of coronary heart disease related to diabetes in Australia 2001 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 5 non-English speaking women per 100,000 people die of stroke related to diabetes in Australia 2001 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 4 women per 100,000 people die of stroke related to diabetes in Australia 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 5 men per 100,000 people die of stroke related to diabetes in Australia 2002 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
o 8 non-English speaking men per 100,000 people die of stroke related to diabetes in Australia 2001 (Australia’s Health 2004, AIHW)
• Death statistics for various countries worldwide:
o Diabetes mellitus caused 11 male deaths per 100,000 population in Australia 2002 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 13 male deaths per 100,000 population in Canada 1998 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 8 male deaths per 100,000 population in Czech Republic 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 13 male deaths per 100,000 population in Denmark 1998 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 6 male deaths per 100,000 population in Finland 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 8 male deaths per 100,000 population in France 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 11 male deaths per 100,000 population in Germany 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 4 male deaths per 100,000 population in Greece 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 12 male deaths per 100,000 population in Hungary 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 10 male deaths per 100,000 population in Ireland 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 12 male deaths per 100,000 population in Italy 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 6 male deaths per 100,000 population in Japan 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 27 male deaths per 100,000 population in Korea 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 10 male deaths per 100,000 population in Netherlands 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 15 male deaths per 100,000 population in New Zealand 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 8 male deaths per 100,000 population in Norway 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 9 male deaths per 100,000 population in Poland 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 14 male deaths per 100,000 population in Portugal 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 10 male deaths per 100,000 population in Slovakia 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 9 male deaths per 100,000 population in Spain 1998 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 9 male deaths per 100,000 population in Sweden 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 10 male deaths per 100,000 population in Switzerland 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 6 male deaths per 100,000 population in the UK 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 16 male deaths per 100,000 population in the US 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 7 female deaths per 100,000 population in Australia 2002 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 9 female deaths per 100,000 population in Canada 1998 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 6 female deaths per 100,000 population in Czech Republic 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 8 female deaths per 100,000 population in Denmark 1998 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 5 female deaths per 100,000 population in Finland 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 6 female deaths per 100,000 population in France 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 9 female deaths per 100,000 population in Germany 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 3 female deaths per 100,000 population in Greece 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 11 female deaths per 100,000 population in Hungary 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 5 female deaths per 100,000 population in Ireland 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 11 female deaths per 100,000 population in Italy 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 3 female deaths per 100,000 population in Japan 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 15 female deaths per 100,000 population in Korea 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 9 female deaths per 100,000 population in Netherlands 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 10 female deaths per 100,000 population in New Zealand 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 5 female deaths per 100,000 population in Norway 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 8 female deaths per 100,000 population in Poland 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 13 female deaths per 100,000 population in Portugal 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 8 female deaths per 100,000 population in Slovakia 2000 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 9 female deaths per 100,000 population in Spain 1998 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 6 female deaths per 100,000 population in Sweden 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 8 female deaths per 100,000 population in Switzerland 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 4 female deaths per 100,000 population in the UK 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
o Diabetes mellitus caused 13 female deaths per 100,000 population in the US 1999 (WHO 2004; AIHW National Mortality Database, Australia’s Health 2004)
Deaths from Diabetes: medical news summaries
The following medical news items are relevant to death from Diabetes:
• 70 percent of people in India may have undiagnosed diabetes
• Diabetes and sugar level linked to risk of cancer death
• Diabetes causes escalating number of deaths
• Hyperglycemia linked to increased mortality amongst critically ill patients
• Liver disease is one of the biggest killers amongst diabetics
• Lorry driver suffering from blackouts kills family after being given all clear by GP
• Man dies of undiagnosed Type 1 diabetes
• Mother allegedly withheld insulin from dead daughter
• Warning signs of a heart attack
• WHO concerned over chronic disease spread
• More news »
Diabetes: Hospitalization Statistics
The following are statistics from various sources about hospitalizations and Diabetes:
• 562,000 hospital discharges occurred for diabetes in the US 2001 (2001 National Hospital Discharge Survey, NCHS, CDC)
• 0.53% (68,232) of hospital episodes were for diabetes mellitus in England 2002-03 (Hospital Episode Statistics, Department of Health, England, 2002-03)
• 78% of hospital consultations for diabetes mellitus required hospital admission in England 2002-03 (Hospital Episode Statistics, Department of Health, England, 2002-03)
• 54% of hospital episodes for diabetes mellitus were for men in England 2002-03 (Hospital Episode Statistics, Department of Health, England, 2002-03)
• 46% of hospital episodes for diabetes mellitus were for women in England 2002-03 (Hospital Episode Statistics, Department of Health, England, 2002-03)
• more stats »
Deaths from Diabetes discussion
Deaths among people with diabetes
• Studies have found death rates to be twice as high among middle-aged people with diabetes as among middle-aged people without diabetes.
• Based on death certificate data, diabetes contributed to 193,140 deaths in 1996.
• Diabetes was the seventh leading cause of death listed on U.S. death certificates in 1996.
• Diabetes is believed to be underreported on death certificates, both as a condition and as a cause of death.
Newborn Deaths
A newborn baby is called a "neonate" for the first 28 days of life. This first month is a relatively high risk period for babies.
Death rates: The overall infant (<1 year) death rate is 0.706% or 1-in-141. This rate is higher in the first 28 days and reduces to 0.188% or 1-in-531 after the neonatal period.
Top Ten Causes of Death:
For neonatal infants aged less than 28 days, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• disorders related to prematurity and low birth weight (23.1%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (20.8%),
• maternal pregnancy complications affecting newborn (7.4%),
• respiratory distress syndrome of newborn (5.6%),
• complications of placenta affecting newborn (5.4%),
• bacterial sepsis of newborn (3.5%),
• atelectasis (3.4%),
• in-uterus hypoxia and birth asphyxia (3.1%),
• neonatal hemorrhage (2.6%),
• necrotizing enterocolitis of newborn (1.9%) and
• other causes (23.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Infant Deaths
Definitions of the term "infant" vary; many medical definitions define it as under 1 year. However, for practical purposes, a baby is an infant for at least 2 years, because this is the period during which they cannot communicate what is wrong with them. This fact makes infant conditions difficult to diagnose for parents and physicians alike. An infant is called a "neonate" for the first 28 days of life.
Death rates: The overall infant (<1 year) death rate is 0.706% or 1-in-141. This rate is higher in the first 28 days and reduces to 0.188% or 1-in-531 after the neonatal period (i.e. after 28 days of life). For ages 1-4 years, the death rate drops down to 0.034% (1 in 2,941) on average.
Top Ten Causes of Death: Causes of death differ for the different categories. Neonates are at highest risk with prematurity leading the list. Non-neonate infants are at a lower risk with SIDS the highest risk.
Neonates: For neonatal infants aged less than 28 days, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• disorders related to prematurity and low birth weight (23.1%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (20.8%),
• maternal pregnancy complications affecting newborn (7.4%),
• respiratory distress syndrome of newborn (5.6%),
• complications of placenta affecting newborn (5.4%),
• bacterial sepsis of newborn (3.5%),
• atelectasis (3.4%),
• in-uterus hypoxia and birth asphyxia (3.1%),
• neonatal hemorrhage (2.6%),
• necrotizing enterocolitis of newborn (1.9%) and
• other causes (23.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Infants and neonates: For infants aged less than 1 year, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (19.6%),
• disorders related to prematurity and low birth weight (15.7%),
• SIDS (9.5%),
• maternal pregnancy complications affecting newborn (5.0%),
• respiratory distress syndrome of newborn (4.0%),
• complications of placenta affecting newborn (3.7%),
• accidents (3.0%),
• bacterial sepsis of newborn (2.5%),
• circulatory system diseases (2.4%),
• atelectasis (2.3%), and
• other causes (32.4%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Non-neonate infants: After the first 28 days, the death rate drops to 0.188% or 1-in-531, and the top causes of death differ somewhat. For non-neonate infants, aged less than 1 year but older than 28 days, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• SIDS (26.5%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (19.4%),
• accidents (8.1%),
• circulatory system diseases (4.5%),
• septicemia (2.8%),
• homicide (2.8%),
• chronic respiratory disease from perinatal period (2.7%),
• digestive conditions including gastritis, duodenitis, non-infectious enteritis, and colitis (2.2%),
• meningitis (0.9%), and
• other causes (27.4%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Child Deaths
Childhood is a time of good health and fun times. After the first year of life, the death rate drops very low, to the lowest rate of any time of life of about 1 in 5,000.
Death rates: For ages 1-4 years, the death rate drops way down to 0.034% (1 in 2,941) on average, compared to 0.706% (1-in-141) for the first year of life. The death rates for 5-9 years are 0.017% (1 in 5,882), and for 10-14 years it is 0.021% (1 in 4,761).
Top Ten Causes of Death:
Age 1-4 years: For age 1-4 years the death rate is 0.034% (1 in 2,941) and the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (36.2%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (10.5%),
• cancer (8.0%),
• homicide (7.2%),
• heart disease (3.5%),
• influenza and pneumonia (2.5%),
• perinatal conditions (1.8%),
• septicemia (1.7%),
• non-malignant cancers (1.2%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (1.0%), and
• other causes (26.7%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Age 5-9 years: For ages 5-9 years, the death rate is 0.017% (1 in 5,882) and the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (42.0%),
• cancer (14.7%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (6.0%),
• homicide (5.4%),
• heart disease (3.3%),
• non-malignant cancers (1.8%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (1.4%),
• septicemia (1.4%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.3%),
• HIV (1.1%), and
• other causes (21.7%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Age 10-14 years: For ages 10-14 years, the death rate is 0.021% (1 in 4,761) and the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (39.6%),
• cancer (12.2%),
• homicide (6.0%),
• suicide (5.9%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (5.4%),
• heart disease (3.9%),
• chronic lower respiratory disease (2.2%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.1%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (0.9%),
• non-malignant cancers (0.9%), and
• other causes (21.9%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the Teens
Death rates: Fortunately, death occurs rarely in teens, at a rate of about 1 in 5,000 each year.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 10-14 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (39.6% of deaths),
• cancer (12.2%),
• homicide (6.0%),
• suicide (5.9%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (5.4%),
• heart disease (3.9%),
• chronic lower respiratory disease (2.2%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.1%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (0.9%),
• non-malignant cancers (0.9%), and
• other causes (21.9%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 15-19 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (48.5% of deaths),
• homicide (15.2%),
• suicide (11.7%),
• cancer (5.4%),
• heart diseases (3.4%),
• congenital conditions including chromosome conditions (1.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (0.8%),
• influenza and pneumonia (0.5%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (0.5%),
• non-malignant cancers (0.4%), and
• other causes (12.0%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 20s
Death rate: The overall rate of death in the 20's is only about 1 in 1,000 each year. In more detail, for ages 20-24 the death rate is 0.093% (1 in 1,075) and for 25-34 years 0.108% (1 in 925).
Top Ten Causes of Death: The main causes of death at this age are not diseases, but accidents, homicide, and suicide. For ages 20-24 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (41.3%),
• homicide (17.2%),
• suicide (13.5%),
• cancer (5.8%),
• heart disease (3.6%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (1.3%),
• HIV (1.0%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (0.7%),
• influenza and pneumonia (0.6%),
• diabetes (0.6%), and
• other causes (14.4%) 1
Even into the 30's, the top causes of death remain accidents, suicide, and homicide. For ages 25-34 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (29.0%),
• suicide (12.4%),
• homicide (10.3%),
• cancer (9.8%),
• heart disease (7.5%),
• HIV (6.6%),
• diabetes (1.4%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (1.4%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (1.1%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (1.0%), and
• other causes (19.5%) 1
Death in the 30s
Death is rare (about 1-in-500 to 1-in-1,000) and the main causes of death in the early 30's are accidents, suicide, and homicide, with cancer and heart disease getting into the top three places for the late 30's and early 40's.
Death Rate: Fortunately, death is rare in the 30's with an annual rate of about 1-in-1000 for ages 25-34 and 1-in-500 for ages 35-44.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 25-34 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• accidents (29.0%),
• suicide (12.4%),
• homicide (10.3%),
• cancer (9.8%),
• heart disease (7.5%),
• HIV (6.6%),
• diabetes (1.4%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (1.4%),
• congenital defects including chromosome conditions (1.1%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (1.0%), and
• other causes (19.5%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 35-44 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (18.7%),
• accidents (17.1%),
• heart disease (15.2%),
• suicide (7.2%),
• HIV (7.0%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (3.7%),
• homicide (3.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (2.9%),
• diabetes (2.2%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.2%), and o
• ther causes (21.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 40s
Although the 40's are still times of activity and generally good health, certain health issues start to arise in many people. Serious chronic conditions start to become an issue, but death remains uncommon (about 1-in-500 to 1-in-250).
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 40's is 0.199% (1 in 502) for ages 35-44 years and 0.427% (1 in 234) for ages 45-54 years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 35-44 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (18.7%),
• accidents (17.1%),
• heart disease (15.2%),
• suicide (7.2%),
• HIV (7.0%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (3.7%),
• homicide (3.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (2.9%),
• diabetes (2.2%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.2%), and
• other causes (21.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 45-54 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (30.5%),
• heart disease (22.9%),
• accidents (7.6%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (4.2%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (3.6%),
• suicide (3.3%),
• diabetes (3.1%),
• HIV (2.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (2.0%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.1%), and
• other causes (19.1%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 50s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 50's is 0.427% (1 in 234) for ages 45-54 years and 1.021% (1 in 97) for ages 55-64 years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 45-54 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (30.5%),
• heart disease (22.9%),
• accidents (7.6%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (4.2%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (3.6%),
• suicide (3.3%),
• diabetes (3.1%),
• HIV (2.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (2.0%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.1%), and
• other causes (19.1%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 55-64 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (37.3%),
• heart disease (26.9%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.7%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (4.0%),
• diabetes (3.8%),
• accidents (3.0%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (2.4%),
• suicide (1.2%),
• kidney diseases (1.2%),
• septicemia (1.1%), and
• other causes (14.4%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 60s
Death rate: The annual rate of death is 1.021% (1 in 97) for ages 55-64 years, and 2.484% (1 in 40) for ages 65-74 years
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 55-64 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (37.3%),
• heart disease (26.9%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.7%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (4.0%),
• diabetes (3.8%),
• accidents (3.0%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (2.4%),
• suicide (1.2%),
• kidney diseases (1.2%),
• septicemia (1.1%), and
• other causes (14.4%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 65-74 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (33.7%),
• heart disease (28.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (7.2%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (5.3%),
• diabetes (3.7%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.5),
• kidney diseases (1.5%),
• septicemia (1.3%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (1.2%), and
• other causes (14.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 65 and over years (i.e. not just to 74), the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (33.8%),
• cancer (21.7%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (8.3%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (6.0%),
• influenza and pneumonia (3.2%),
• diabetes (2.9%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%), and
• other causes (16.9%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 60s
Death rate: The annual rate of death is 1.021% (1 in 97) for ages 55-64 years, and 2.484% (1 in 40) for ages 65-74 years
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 55-64 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (37.3%),
• heart disease (26.9%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.7%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (4.0%),
• diabetes (3.8%),
• accidents (3.0%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (2.4%),
• suicide (1.2%),
• kidney diseases (1.2%),
• septicemia (1.1%), and
• other causes (14.4%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 65-74 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (33.7%),
• heart disease (28.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (7.2%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (5.3%),
• diabetes (3.7%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.5),
• kidney diseases (1.5%),
• septicemia (1.3%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (1.2%), and
• other causes (14.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 65 and over years (i.e. not just to 74), the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (33.8%),
• cancer (21.7%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (8.3%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (6.0%),
• influenza and pneumonia (3.2%),
• diabetes (2.9%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%), and
• other causes (16.9%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 70s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 70's is 2.484% (1 in 40) for age 65-74 years and 5.751% (1 in 17) for age 75-84 years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 65-74 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• cancer (33.7%),
• heart disease (28.6%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (7.2%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (5.3%),
• diabetes (3.7%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• influenza and pneumonia (1.5),
• kidney diseases (1.5%),
• septicemia (1.3%),
• chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (1.2%), and
• other causes (14.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 75-84 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (32.4%),
• cancer (23.3%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (8.2%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (7.0%),
• diabetes (3.1%),
• influenza and pneumonia (2.7%),
• Alzheimer's (2.3%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%), and
• other causes (16.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 80s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 80's is 5.751% (1 in 17) for ages 75-84 years and %15.475% (1 in 6) for ages 85+ years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 75-84 years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (32.4%),
• cancer (23.3%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (8.2%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (7.0%),
• diabetes (3.1%),
• influenza and pneumonia (2.7%),
• Alzheimer's (2.3%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%), and
• other causes (16.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
For ages 85 and over years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (39.0%),
• cancer (11.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (10.4%),
• influenza and pneumonia (4.8%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.2%),
• Alzheimer's (3.9%)
• diabetes (2.0%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%) and
• other causes (19.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 90s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 90's is %15.475% (1 in 6) for ages 85+ years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 85 and over years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (39.0%),
• cancer (11.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (10.4%),
• influenza and pneumonia (4.8%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.2%),
• Alzheimer's (3.9)
• diabetes (2.0%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%) and
• other causes (19.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
Death in the 100s
Death rate: The annual rate of death in the 90's is %15.475% (1 in 6) for ages 85+ years.
Top Ten Causes of Death: For ages 85 and over years, the top ten causes of death in USA 1999 were:
• heart disease (39.0%),
• cancer (11.6%),
• cerebrovascular diseases including stroke (10.4%),
• influenza and pneumonia (4.8%),
• chronic lower respiratory diseases (4.2%),
• Alzheimer's (3.9)
• diabetes (2.0%),
• accidents (1.8%),
• kidney diseases (1.7%),
• septicemia (1.4%) and
• other causes (19.2%) [CDC NVSR 2001].
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What is low blood pressure?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels, and constitutes one of the principal vital signs of life, which also include heart beat, rate of breathing, and temperature. Blood pressure is generated by the heart pumping blood into the arteries and is regulated by the response by the arteries to the flow of blood.
An individual's blood pressure is expressed as systolic/diastolic blood pressure, for example, 120/80.The systolic blood pressure (the top number) represents the pressure in the arteries as the muscle of the heart contracts and pumps blood into them. The diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) represents the pressure in the arteries as the muscle of the heart relaxes after it contracts. Blood pressure always is higher when the heart is pumping (squeezing) than when it is relaxing.
Systolic blood pressure for most healthy adults falls between 90 and 120 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Normal diastolic blood pressure falls between 60 and 80 mm Hg. Current guidelines define normal blood pressure as lower than 120/80. Blood pressures over 130/80 are considered high. High blood pressure increases the risk of developing:
• heart disease,
• kidney disease,
• hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis or arteriosclerosis),
• eye damage, and
• stroke.
Low blood pressure (hypotension) is pressure so low it causes symptoms or signs due to the low flow of blood through the arteries and veins. When the flow of blood is too low to deliver enough oxygen and nutrients to vital organs such as the brain, heart, and kidney, the organs do not function normally and may be permanently damaged.
Unlike high blood pressure, low blood pressure is defined primarily by signs and symptoms of low blood flow and not by a specific blood pressure number. Some individuals may have a blood pressure of 90/50 with no symptoms of low blood pressure and therefore do not have low blood pressure. However, others who normally have high blood pressure may develop symptoms of low blood pressure if their blood pressure drops to 100/60.
How is blood pressure generated?
During relaxation of the heart (diastole) the left ventricle of the heart fills with blood returning from the lungs. The left ventricle then contracts and pumps blood into the arteries (systole). The blood pressure during contraction of the ventricle (systolic pressure) when blood is being actively ejected into the arteries is higher than during relaxation of the ventricle (diastolic pressure). The pulse that we can feel when we place our fingers over an artery is caused by the contraction of the left ventricle.
Blood pressure is determined by two factors: 1) The amount of blood pumped by the left ventricle of the heart into the arteries, and 2) the resistance to the flow of blood caused by the walls of the arterioles (smaller arteries).
Generally, blood pressure tends to be higher if more blood is pumped into the arteries or if the arterioles are narrow and stiff. (Narrow and stiff arterioles, by resisting the flow of blood, increase blood pressure.) This often happens when older patients develop atherosclerosis.
Blood pressure tends to be lower if less blood is being pumped into the arteries or if the arterioles are larger and more flexible and, therefore, have less resistance to the flow of blood.
How does the body maintain normal blood pressure?
The body has mechanisms to alter or maintain blood pressure and blood flow. There are sensors that sense blood pressure in the walls of the arteries and send signals to the heart, the arterioles, the veins, and the kidneys that cause them to make changes that lower or increase blood pressure. There are several ways in which blood pressure can be adjusted - by adjusting the amount of blood pumped by the heart into the arteries (cardiac output), the amount of blood contained in the veins, the arteriolar resistance, and the volume of blood.
• The heart can speed up and contract more frequently and it can eject more blood with each contraction. Both of these responses increase the flow of blood into the arteries and increase blood pressure.
• The veins can expand and narrow. When veins expand, more blood can be stored in the veins and less blood returns to the heart for pumping into the arteries. As a result, the heart pumps less blood, and blood pressure is lower. On the other hand, when veins narrow, less blood is stored in the veins, more blood returns to the heart for pumping into the arteries, and blood pressure is higher.
• The arterioles can expand and narrow. Expanded arterioles create less resistance to the flow of blood and decrease blood pressure, while narrowed arterioles create more resistance and raise blood pressure.
• The kidney can respond to changes in blood pressure by increasing or decreasing the amount of urine that is produced. Urine is primarily water that is removed from the blood. When the kidney makes more urine, the amount (volume) of blood that fills the arteries and veins decreases, and this lowers blood pressure. If the kidneys make less urine, the amount of blood that fills the arteries and veins increases and this increases blood pressure. Compared with the other mechanisms for adjusting blood pressure, changes in the production of urine affect blood pressure slowly over hours and days. (The other mechanisms are effective in seconds.)
For example, low blood volume due to bleeding (such as a bleeding ulcer in your stomach or from a bad laceration from an injury) can cause low blood pressure. The body quickly responds to the low blood volume and pressure by the following adjustments which all increase blood pressure:
• The heart rate increases and the forcefulness of the heart's contractions increase, thus more blood is pumped through the heart.
• Veins narrow to return more blood to the heart for pumping.
• Blood flow to the kidneys decreases to reduce the formation of urine and thereby increases the volume of blood in the arteries and veins.
• Arterioles narrow to increase resistance to blood flow
These adaptive responses will keep the blood pressure in the normal range unless blood loss becomes so severe that the responses are overwhelmed.
Is low blood pressure bad for your health?
People who have lower blood pressures have a lower risk of stroke, kidney disease, and heart disease. Athletes, people who exercise regularly, people who maintain ideal body weight, and non-smokers tend to have lower blood pressures. Therefore, low blood pressure is desirable as long as it is not low enough to cause symptoms and damage organs in the body.
What are low blood pressure signs and symptoms?
When the blood pressure is not sufficient to deliver enough blood to the organs of the body, the organs do not work properly and may be permanently damaged. For example, if insufficient blood flows to the brain, brain cells do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, and a person can feel lightheaded, dizzy, or even faint.
Going from a sitting or lying position to a standing position often brings out symptoms of low blood pressure. This occurs because standing causes blood to "settle" in the veins of the lower body, and this can lower the blood pressure. If the blood pressure is already low, standing can make the low pressure worse, to the point of causing symptoms. The development of lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting upon standing caused by low blood pressure is called orthostatic hypotension. Normal individuals are able to compensate rapidly for the low pressure created by standing with the responses discussed previously and do not develop orthostatic hypotension.
When there is insufficient blood pressure to deliver blood to the coronary arteries (the arteries that supply blood to the heart's muscle), a person can develop chest pain (a symptom of angina) or even a heart attack.
When insufficient blood is delivered to the kidneys, the kidneys fail to eliminate wastes from the body, for example, urea and creatinine, and an increase in their levels in the blood occur (for example, elevations of blood urea nitrogen or BUN and serum creatinine, respectively).
Shock is a life-threatening condition where persistently low blood pressure causes organs such as kidney(s), liver, heart, lung, and brain to fail rapidly.
What are the causes of low blood pressure?
Conditions that reduce the volume of blood, reduce cardiac output (the amount of blood pumped by the heart), and medications are frequent causes of low blood pressure.
• Dehydration is common among patients with prolonged nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Large amounts of water are lost when vomiting and with diarrhea, especially if the patient does not drink adequate amounts of fluid to replace the depleted water.
Other causes of dehydration include exercise, sweating, fever, and heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. Individuals with mild dehydration may experience only thirst and dry mouth. Moderate to severe dehydration may cause orthostatic hypotension (manifested by lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting upon standing). Protracted and severe dehydration can lead to shock, kidney failure, confusion, acidosis (too much acid in the blood), coma, and even death.
• Moderate or severe bleeding can quickly deplete an individual's body of blood, leading to low blood pressure or orthostatic hypotension. Bleeding can result from trauma, surgical complications, or from gastrointestinal abnormalities such as ulcers, tumors, or diverticulosis. Occasionally, the bleeding may be so severe and rapid (for example, bleeding from a ruptured aortic aneurysm) that it causes shock and death rapidly.
• Severe inflammation of organs inside the body such as acute pancreatitis can cause low blood pressure. In acute pancreatitis, fluid leaves the blood vessels to enter the inflamed tissues around the pancreas as well as the abdominal cavity, depleting the volume of blood.
Causes of low blood pressure due to heart disease
• Weakened heart muscle can cause the heart to fail and reduce the amount of blood it pumps. One common cause of weakened heart muscle is the death of a large portion of the heart's muscle due to a single, large heart attack or repeated smaller heart attacks. Other examples of conditions that can weaken the heart include medications that are toxic to the heart, infections of the muscle of the heart by viruses (myocarditis), and diseases of the heart's valves such as aortic stenosis.
• Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart). Pericarditis can cause fluid to accumulate within the pericardium and compress the heart, restricting the ability of the heart to fill and pump blood.
• Pulmonary embolism is a condition in which a blood clot in a vein (deep vein thrombosis) breaks off and travels to the heart and eventually the lung. A large blood clot can block the flow of blood into the left ventricle from the lungs and severely diminish the blood returning to the heart for pumping. Pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening emergency.
• A slow heart rate (bradycardia) can decrease the amount of blood pumped by the heart. The resting heart rate for a healthy adult is between 60 and 100 beats/minute. Bradycardia (resting heart rates slower than 60 beats/minute) does not always cause low blood pressure. In fact, some highly trained athletes can have resting heart rates in the 40s and 50s (beats per minute) without any symptoms. (The slow heart rates are offset by more forceful contractions of the heart that pump more blood than in non-athletes.) But in many patients bradycardia can lead to low blood pressure, lightheadedness, dizziness, and even fainting.
Several common reasons for bradycardia include: 1) sick sinus syndrome, 2) heart block, and 3) drug toxicity. Many of these conditions occur in the elderly.
1. Sick sinus syndrome: Sick sinus syndrome occurs when the diseased electrical system of the heart cannot generate signals fast enough to maintain a normal heart rate.
2. Heart block: Heart block occurs when the specialized tissues that transmit electrical current in the heart are damaged by heart attacks, degeneration from atherosclerosis, and medications. Heart block prevents some or all of the electrical signals from reaching the rest of the heart, and this prevents the heart from contracting as rapidly as it otherwise would.
3. Drug toxicity: Drugs such as digoxin (Lanoxin) or beta blockers for high blood pressure, can slow the transmission of electricity in the heart chemically and can cause bradycardia and hypotension (see section below "Medications that cause low blood pressure").
• An abnormally fast heart rate (tachycardia) also can cause low blood pressure. The most common example of tachycardia causing low blood pressure is atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is a disorder of the heart characterized by rapid and irregular electrical discharges from the muscle of the heart causing the ventricles to contract irregularly and (usually) rapidly. The rapidly contracting ventricles do not have enough time to fill maximally with blood before the each contraction, and the amount of blood that is pumped decreases in spite of the faster heart rate. Other abnormally rapid heart rhythms such as ventricular tachycardia also can produce low blood pressure, sometimes even life-threatening shock.
Medications that cause low blood pressure
• Medications such as calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, and digoxin (Lanoxin) can slow the rate at which the heart contracts. Some elderly people are extremely sensitive to these medications since they are more likely to have diseased hearts and electrical conduction tissues. In some individuals, the heart rate can become dangerously slow even with small doses of these medications.
• Medications used in treating high blood pressure (such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and alpha-blockers) can excessively lower blood pressure and result in symptomatic low blood pressure especially among the elderly.
• Water pills (diuretics) such as furosemide (Lasix) can decrease blood volume by causing excessive urination.
• Medications used for treating depression, such as amitriptyline (Elavil), Parkinson's disease, such as levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet), erectile dysfunction (impotence), such as sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra), and tadalafil (Cialis) when used in combination with nitroglycerine, can cause low blood pressure.
• Alcohol and narcotics also can cause low blood pressure.
Other conditions that cause low blood pressure
• Vasovagal reaction is a common condition in which a healthy person temporarily develops low blood pressure, slow heart rate, and sometimes fainting. A vasovagal reaction typically is brought on by emotions of fear or pain such as having blood drawn, starting an intravenous infusion, or by gastrointestinal upset. Vasovagal reactions are caused by activity of involuntary (autonomic) nervous system, especially the vagus nerve, which releases hormones that slow the heart and widen the blood vessels. The vagus nerve controls the heart rate (slows it down). The vagus nerve also controls digestive tract function and senses activity in the digestive system. Thus, some people can have a vasovagal reaction from straining at a bowel movement or vomiting.
• Postural (orthostatic) hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure when an individual stands up from a sitting, squatting, or supine (lying) position. When a person stands up, gravity causes blood to settle in the veins in the legs, so less blood reaches the heart for pumping, and as a result the blood pressure drops. The body normally responds automatically to the drop in blood pressure by increasing the rate at which the heart beats and by narrowing the veins to return more blood to the heart. In patients with postural hypotension, this compensating reflex fails to occur, resulting in symptomatic low blood pressure. Postural hypotension can occur in persons of all ages but is much more common among the elderly, especially in those on medications for high blood pressure and/or diuretics. Other causes of postural hypotension include dehydration, adrenal insufficiency (discussed later), prolonged bed rest, diabetes that has caused damage to the autonomic nerves, alcoholism with damage to the autonomic nerves, and certain rare neurological syndromes (for example, Shy-Drager syndrome) that damage the autonomic nerves.
• Another form of postural hypotension occurs typically in young healthy individuals. After prolonged standing, the individual's heart rate and blood pressure drops, causing dizziness, nausea, and often fainting. In these individuals, the autonomic nervous system wrongly responds to prolonged standing by directing the heart to slow down and the veins to dilate.
• Micturition syncope is a temporary drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness brought about by urinating. This condition typically occurs in elderly patients and may be due to the release by the autonomic nerves of hormones that lower blood pressure.
• Adrenal insufficiency, for example, due to Addison's disease, can cause low blood pressure. Addison's disease is a disorder in which the adrenal glands (small glands next to the kidneys) are destroyed. The destroyed adrenal glands can no longer produce sufficient adrenal hormones (specifically cortisol) necessary to maintain normal bodily functions. Cortisol has many functions, one of which is to maintain blood pressure and the function of the heart. Addison's disease is characterized by weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, low blood pressure, and, sometimes, darkening of the skin.
• Septicemia is a severe infection in which bacteria (or other infectious organisms such as fungi) enter the blood. The infection typically originates in the lungs (as pneumonia), bladder, or in the abdomen due to diverticulitis or gallstones. The bacteria then enter the blood where they release toxins and cause life-threatening and profound low blood pressure (septic shock), often with damage to several organs.
• Anaphylaxis (anaphylactic shock) is a potentially fatal allergic reaction to medications such as penicillin, intravenous iodine used in some x-ray studies, foods such as peanuts, or bee stings (insect stings). In addition to a severe drop in blood pressure, individuals may also experience hives, wheezing, and a swollen throat with difficulty breathing. The shock is caused by enlargement of blood-containing blood vessels and escape of water from the blood into the tissues.
How is low blood pressure diagnosed and evaluated?
In some individuals, particularly relatively healthy ones, symptoms of weakness, dizziness, and fainting raise the suspicion of low blood pressure. In others, an event often associated with low blood pressure, for example a heart attack has occurred to cause the symptoms.
Measuring blood pressure, sometimes in both the lying (supine) and standing positions usually is the first step in diagnosing low blood pressure. In patients with symptomatic low blood pressure, there often is a marked drop in blood pressure upon standing, and patients may even develop orthostatic symptoms. The heart rate often increases greatly. Once low blood pressure has been identified as the cause of symptoms, the goal is to identify the cause of the low blood pressure. Sometimes the causes are readily apparent (such as loss of blood due to trauma, or sudden shock after receiving x-ray dyes containing iodine). At other times, the cause may be identified by testing:
• CBC (complete blood count). CBC may reveal anemia from blood loss or elevated white blood cells due to infection.
• Blood electrolyte measurements may show dehydration and mineral depletion, renal failure (kidney failure), or acidosis (excess acid in the blood).
• Cortisol levels can be measured to diagnose adrenal insufficiency and Addison's disease.
• Blood and urine cultures can be performed to diagnose septicemia and bladder infections, respectively.
• Radiology studies, such as chest x-rays, abdominal ultrasounds, and computerized tomography (CT or CAT) scans may detect pneumonia, heart failure, gallstones, pancreatitis, and diverticulitis.
• Electrocardiograms (EKG) can detect abnormally slow or rapid heart beats, pericarditis, and heart muscle damage from either previous heart attacks or a reduced supply of blood to the heart muscle that has not yet caused a heart attack.
• Holter monitor recordings are used to diagnose intermittent episodes of abnormal heart rhythms. If abnormal rhythms occur intermittently, a standard EKG performed at the time of a visit to the doctor's office may not show the abnormal rhythm. A Holter monitor is a continuous recording of the heart's rhythm for 24 hours that often is used to diagnose intermittent episodes of bradycardia or tachycardia.
• Patient-activated event recorder. If the episodes of bradycardia or tachycardia are infrequent, a 24-hour Holter recording may not capture these sporadic episodes. In this situation, a patient can wear a patient-activated event recorder for up to four weeks. The patient presses a button to start the recording when he or she senses the onset of an abnormal heart rhythm or symptoms possibly caused by low blood pressure. The doctor then analyzes the recordings at a later date to identify the abnormal episodes.
• Echocardiograms are examinations of the structures and motion of the heart using ultrasound. Echocardiograms can detect pericardial fluid due to pericarditis, the extent of heart muscle damage from heart attacks, diseases of the heart valves, and rare tumors of the heart.
• Ultrasound examinations of the leg veins and CT scans of the chest can detect deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
• Tilt-Table tests are used to evaluate patients suspected of having postural hypotension or syncope due to abnormal autonomic nerves. During a tilt-table test, the patient lies on an examining table with an intravenous infusion administered while the heart rate and blood pressure are monitored. The table then is tilted upright for 15 minutes to 45 minutes. Heart rate and blood pressure are monitored every few minutes. The purpose of the test is to try to reproduce postural hypotension. Sometimes a doctor may administer epinephrine (Adrenalin, Isuprel) intravenously to induce postural hypotension.
How is low blood pressure treated?
Low blood pressure in healthy subjects without symptoms or organ damage needs no treatment. However, all patients with symptoms possibly due to low blood pressure should be evaluated by a doctor. (Patients who have had a major drop in blood pressure from their usual levels even without the development of symptoms also should be evaluated.) The doctor needs to identify the cause of the low blood pressure because treatment will depend on the cause. For example, if a medication is causing the low blood pressure, the dose of medication may have to be reduced or the medication stopped, though only after consulting the doctor. Self-adjustment of medication should not be done.
• Dehydration is treated with fluids and minerals (electrolytes). Mild dehydration without nausea and vomiting can be treated with oral fluids and electrolytes. Moderate to severe dehydration usually is treated in the hospital or emergency room with intravenous fluids and electrolytes.
• Blood loss can be treated with intravenous fluids and blood transfusions. Continuous and severe bleeding needs to be treated immediately.
• Septic shock is an emergency and is treated with intravenous fluids and antibiotics.
• Blood pressure medications or diuretics are adjusted, changed, or stopped by the doctor if they are causing low blood pressure symptoms.
• Bradycardia may be due to a medication. The doctor may reduce, change or stop the medication. Bradycardia due to sick sinus syndrome or heart block is treated with an implantable pacemaker.
• Tachycardia is treated depending on the nature of the tachycardia. Atrial fibrillation can be treated with oral medications, electrical cardioversion, or a catheterization procedure called pulmonary vein isolation. Ventricular tachycardia can be controlled with medications or with an implantable defibrillator.
• Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis is treated with blood thinners, intravenous initially with heparin, and oral warfarin (Coumadin) later.
• Pericardial fluid can be removed by a procedure called pericardiocentesis.
• Postural hypotension can be treated by increasing water and salt intake*, increasing intake of caffeinated beverages because caffeine constricts blood vessels, using compression stockings to compress the leg veins and reduce the pooling of blood in the leg veins, and in some patients, the use of a medication called midodrine (ProAmatine). The problem with ProAmatine is that while it increases blood pressure in the upright position, the supine blood pressure may become too high, thus increasing the risk of strokes. Mayo Clinic researchers found that a medication used to treat muscle weakness in Myasthenia gravis called pyridostigmine (Mestinon) increases upright blood pressure but not supine blood pressure. Mestinon, an anticholinesterase medication, works on the autonomic nervous system, especially when a person is standing up. Side effects include minor abdominal cramping or increased frequency of bowel movements. *Note: Increasing salt intake can lead to heart failure in patients with existing heart disease and should not be undertaken without consulting a doctor.
• Postprandial hypotension refers to low blood pressure occurring after meals. Ibuprofen (Motrin) or indomethacin (Indocin) may be beneficial.
• Vasovagal Syncope can be treated with several types of drugs such as beta blockers [for example, propanolol (Inderal, Inderal LA)], selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [fluoxetine (Prozac), escitalopram oxalate (Lexapro), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), fluvoxamine (Luvox)], fludrocortisone (Florinef) (a drug that prevents dehydration by causing the kidney(s) to retaining water). A pacemaker can also be helpful when a patient fails drug therapy.
Low Blood Pressure At A Glance
• Low blood pressure, also called hypotension, is blood pressure that is low enough that the flow of blood to the organs of the body is inadequate and symptoms and/or signs of low blood flow develop.
• Low pressure alone, without symptoms or signs, usually is not unhealthy.
• The symptoms of low blood pressure include lightheadedness, dizziness, and fainting. These symptoms are most prominent when individuals go from the lying or sitting position to the standing position (orthostatic hypotension).
• Low blood pressure that causes an inadequate flow of blood to the body's organs can cause strokes, heart attacks, and kidney failure. It's most severe form is shock.
• Common causes of low blood pressure include a reduced volume of blood, heart disease, and medications.
• The cause of low blood pressure can be determined with blood tests, radiologic studies, and cardiac testing to look for arrhythmias.
• Treatment of low blood pressure is determined by the cause of the low pressure.
What is obesity?
The definition of obesity varies depending on what one reads, but in general, it is a chronic condition defined by an excess amount body fat. A certain amount of body fat is necessary for storing energy, heat insulation, shock absorption, and other functions. The normal amount of body fat (expressed as percentage of body fat) is between 25%-30% in women and 18%-23% in men. Women with over 30% body fat and men with over 25% body fat are considered obese.
The calculation of body mass index (BMI) has also been used in the definition of obesity. The body mass index (BMI) equals a person's weight in kilograms (kg) divided by their height in meters (m) squared. Since BMI describes body weight relative to height, it is strongly correlated with total body fat content in adults. "Obesity" is defined as a BMI of 30 and above.
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Turmeric Side Effects
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Turmeric Ayurvedic Use .
Synopsis of Turmeric’s Healing Properties
Besides flavoring food, to purify the blood and skin conditions remedy is probably the most common use of Turmeric in Ayurveda.
• The main organs that turmeric treats are the skin, heart, liver and lungs.
• Turmeric is used for epilepsy and bleeding disorders, skin diseases, to purify the body-mind, and to help the lungs expel Kapha.
• Activities of Turmeric include: Alterative, analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-allergic, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, appetizer, astringent, cardiovascular, carminative, cholagogue, digestive, diuretic, stimulant, and vulnerary.
• Therapeutic uses of Turmeric: Anemia, cancer, diabetes, digestion, food poisoning, gallstones, indigestion, IBS, parasites, poor circulation, staph infections, and wounds.
• Turmeric helps to regulate the female reproductive system and purifies the uterus and breast milk, and in men it purifies and builds semen, which is counterintuitive for a pungent bitter.
• Turmeric reduces fevers, diarrhea, urinary disorders, insanity, poisoning, cough, and lactation problems in general.
• Turmeric is used to treat external ulcers that respond to nothing else. Turmeric decreases Kapha and so is used to remove mucus in the throat, watery discharges like leucorrhea, and any pus in the eyes, ears, or in wounds, etc.
• In Ayurvedic cooking, turmeric is everywhere, this multifaceted wonder spice helps
o Detoxify the liver
o Balance cholesterol levels
o Fight allergies
o Stimulate digestion
o Boost immunity
o Enhance the complexion
It is also an antioxidant Ayurveda recognizes turmeric as a heating spice, contributing bitter, pungent and astringent tastes.
Top Remedies
Anemia
Everyday take a dose of 1 tsp of turmeric juice mixed with honey.
Asthma
Boil 1 cup of milk with 1 tsp of turmeric powder. Drink warm.
Burns
Mix 1 tsp of turmeric with 1 tsp of aloe gel and apply to burnt area.
Conjunctivitis
Mix 1 tbsp of crushed, raw turmeric in 1/3 cup of water. Boil and sieve. 2–3 drops of this mixture may be used in each eye up to 3 times per day.
Complexion
Apply a paste of turmeric on the skin before bed, and wash off after a few minutes. In the morning, remove any remaining yellow tinge with a paste of chickpea flour (besan) and oil.
Dental problems
Mix 1 tsp of turmeric with ½ tsp of salt. Add mustard oil to make a paste. Rub the teeth and gums with this paste twice daily.
Diabetes
½–1 tsp of turmeric should be taken 3 times a day.
Diarrhoea
Take ½ tsp of turmeric powder or juice in water, 3 times per day.
Top Pain
Mix 1 tsp of turmeric and 2 tsp of ginger with water to make a paste. Spread over a cloth, place on the affected area and bandage.
Add 1 tsp of turmeric to 1 cup of warm milk and drink before bed.
Other uses
In cooking, turmeric acts as a yellow coloring agent. It is an important herb in Hindu rituals. It is also a ingredient in cosmetics as it is beneficial for the skin. Burning turmeric can repel insects. Inhaling the smoke can assist in coughs, asthma and congested nasal passages.
Ears, Eyes, Nose and Mouth
Turmeric dust, with alum 1:20, is blown into the ear to treat chronic otorrhea.
Mix a pinch of Turmeric with organic ghee and apply it to the mucus lining of nose to stop the sniffles. It also stops nosebleeds, helps to clear the sinuses, restore a more acute sense of smell, and helps to purify the mind and brain.
Turmeric helps to maintain the shape and integrity of our eyes.
A Turmeric/water decoction, 1:20, is used to treat conjunctivitis and eye disease in general. Soak a cloth in the decoction and then cover the eye with it. This helps to relieve the pain as well.
Turmeric for Stomach and Intestines
Turmeric treats the whole Gastro - Intestinal system.
In general turmeric is used for
• Weak stomachs
• Poor digestion
• Dyspepsia
• To normalize metabolism
• To help digest protein
• To increase the bio-availability of food and the ability of the stomach to withstand digestive acids.
Turmeric is a great carminative, able to calm an upset digestive system by getting rid of gas and distention. Carminatives also tend to increase absorption and nurture the intestinal flora.
Taking Turmeric will work fine to balance an upset digestion. Just take a small spoonful of Turmeric and stir it in a cup of yogurt right after lunch.
Remedy for ‘piles’ is to directly apply a mixture of mustard oil, turmeric, and onion juice. To stop rectal bleeding take a 2 or 3 tablespoons of Turmeric every half hour until the bleeding stops, usually in an hour.
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Turmeric Side Effects
The health benefits of turmeric are many, but what about the side effects?
In general, turmeric is considered safe even at higher doses. However, turmeric does have some contraindications.
It should be used with caution by people with gallstones, stomach ulcers, or bile duct obstruction as turmeric may exacerbate these conditions.
Turmeric can be a uterine stimulant, so pregnant women should consult with a doctor before taking turmeric during pregnancy.
People with serious liver or heart conditions should also consult with a doctor before taking turmeric supplements.
10 Facts About Turmeric
Turmeric is the ingredient in curry that gives it a vibrant yellow color.
It is also used in mustard and many other common foods to impart a yellow shade.
India is the worlds largest producer of turmeric powder as well as the world's largest consumer of the powder.
The city of Erode in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu is the world's largest producer of turmeric. Erode has often been referred to as "Yellow City" or "Turmeric City."
It is a ritual in Indian weddings to apply turmeric paste over the bride and groom's face and arms.
Women in India sometimes use turmeric paste to remove excess body hair.
Dr. Eric Lattman of Aston University has identified turmeric as a natural antivenin for King Cobra snake bites.
People in the Middle Ages called turmeric "Indian saffron" because it was often used as a less expensive alternative to saffron.
A spoonful of turmeric added to the water in water-cooled radiators will stop leaks.
Turmeric paste is a home remedy for sunburn and it is also an ingredient in many commercial sunscreens.
Turmeric Tea Recipe
How to Make Turmeric Tea
One way to reap the health benefits of turmeric is to drink turmeric tea. It's easy to make and tastes great with a little bit of lemon or honey.
Ingredients
4 cups water
1 tablespoon ground turmeric
lemon (optional)
honey (optional)
Directions
Bring water to a boil. Reduce heat and add ground turmeric. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Strain into a mug using a mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
Add honey and/or lemon to taste.
Turmeric and Psoriasis
A Natural Psoriasis Treatment
Turmeric is a popular home remedy for psoriasis. Turmeric paste is easy to make and many people claim it has significantly improved their psoriasis symptoms.
Livestrong.com has a great article on how to make turmeric paste to treat psoriasis.
The article states that curcumin "is the active ingredient in turmeric responsible for inhibiting skin growth factors that lead to psoriasis scales, according to Volume 595 of the journal Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology."
One caveat: the paste will turn your skin orange for a while but will eventually fade, hopefully along with your psoriasis!
Synopsis of Turmeric’s Healing Properties
Besides flavoring food, to purify the blood and skin conditions remedy is probably the most common use of Turmeric in Ayurveda.
• The main organs that turmeric treats are the skin, heart, liver and lungs.
• Turmeric is used for epilepsy and bleeding disorders, skin diseases, to purify the body-mind, and to help the lungs expel Kapha.
• Activities of Turmeric include: Alterative, analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-allergic, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, appetizer, astringent, cardiovascular, carminative, cholagogue, digestive, diuretic, stimulant, and vulnerary.
• Therapeutic uses of Turmeric: Anemia, cancer, diabetes, digestion, food poisoning, gallstones, indigestion, IBS, parasites, poor circulation, staph infections, and wounds.
• Turmeric helps to regulate the female reproductive system and purifies the uterus and breast milk, and in men it purifies and builds semen, which is counterintuitive for a pungent bitter.
• Turmeric reduces fevers, diarrhea, urinary disorders, insanity, poisoning, cough, and lactation problems in general.
• Turmeric is used to treat external ulcers that respond to nothing else. Turmeric decreases Kapha and so is used to remove mucus in the throat, watery discharges like leucorrhea, and any pus in the eyes, ears, or in wounds, etc.
• In Ayurvedic cooking, turmeric is everywhere, this multifaceted wonder spice helps
o Detoxify the liver
o Balance cholesterol levels
o Fight allergies
o Stimulate digestion
o Boost immunity
o Enhance the complexion
It is also an antioxidant Ayurveda recognizes turmeric as a heating spice, contributing bitter, pungent and astringent tastes.
Top Remedies
Anemia
Everyday take a dose of 1 tsp of turmeric juice mixed with honey.
Asthma
Burns
Mix 1 tsp of turmeric with 1 tsp of aloe gel and apply to burnt area.
Conjunctivitis
Mix 1 tbsp of crushed, raw turmeric in 1/3 cup of water. Boil and sieve. 2–3 drops of this mixture may be used in each eye up to 3 times per day.
Complexion
Apply a paste of turmeric on the skin before bed, and wash off after a few minutes. In the morning, remove any remaining yellow tinge with a paste of chickpea flour (besan) and oil.
Dental problems
Mix 1 tsp of turmeric with ½ tsp of salt. Add mustard oil to make a paste. Rub the teeth and gums with this paste twice daily.
Diabetes
½–1 tsp of turmeric should be taken 3 times a day.
Diarrhoea
Take ½ tsp of turmeric powder or juice in water, 3 times per day.
Top Pain
Mix 1 tsp of turmeric and 2 tsp of ginger with water to make a paste. Spread over a cloth, place on the affected area and bandage.
Add 1 tsp of turmeric to 1 cup of warm milk and drink before bed.
Other uses
In cooking, turmeric acts as a yellow coloring agent. It is an important herb in Hindu rituals. It is also a ingredient in cosmetics as it is beneficial for the skin. Burning turmeric can repel insects. Inhaling the smoke can assist in coughs, asthma and congested nasal passages.
Ears, Eyes, Nose and Mouth
Turmeric dust, with alum 1:20, is blown into the ear to treat chronic otorrhea.
Mix a pinch of Turmeric with organic ghee and apply it to the mucus lining of nose to stop the sniffles. It also stops nosebleeds, helps to clear the sinuses, restore a more acute sense of smell, and helps to purify the mind and brain.
Turmeric helps to maintain the shape and integrity of our eyes.
A Turmeric/water decoction, 1:20, is used to treat conjunctivitis and eye disease in general. Soak a cloth in the decoction and then cover the eye with it. This helps to relieve the pain as well.
Turmeric for Stomach and Intestines
Turmeric treats the whole Gastro - Intestinal system.
In general turmeric is used for
• Weak stomachs
• Poor digestion
• Dyspepsia
• To normalize metabolism
• To help digest protein
• To increase the bio-availability of food and the ability of the stomach to withstand digestive acids.
Turmeric is a great carminative, able to calm an upset digestive system by getting rid of gas and distention. Carminatives also tend to increase absorption and nurture the intestinal flora.
Taking Turmeric will work fine to balance an upset digestion. Just take a small spoonful of Turmeric and stir it in a cup of yogurt right after lunch.
Remedy for ‘piles’ is to directly apply a mixture of mustard oil, turmeric, and onion juice. To stop rectal bleeding take a 2 or 3 tablespoons of Turmeric every half hour until the bleeding stops, usually in an hour.
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