Objective:

To analyze provisional mortality data for deaths occurring among US residents in 2025 and compare it with 2024 data.

Approach:

• Data Analysis: Researchers analyzed provisional death certificate data from the National Vital Statistics System for deaths occurring in 2025, comparing it with final mortality data from 2024.
• Statistical Methods: Age-adjusted mortality rates were calculated overall and by sex and race and ethnicity, with statistical significance assessed using z tests.

Key Findings:

• In 2025, heart disease remained the leading cause of death, accounting for 694,708 deaths, followed by cancer with 622,832 deaths and unintentional injuries with 184,265 deaths.
• The age-adjusted mortality rate was highest among Black people (869.0 per 100,000) and lowest among multiracial people (187.3 per 100,000).

Interpretation:

Provisional mortality data provide an early assessment of national mortality patterns and may guide public health decision-making.

Limitations:

• Data are provisional and may change as additional information and updated population estimates become available.
• Reporting delays may particularly affect causes of death such as unintentional injuries.
• Potential misclassification of race and Hispanic ethnicity on death certificates may impact the accuracy of mortality statistics.
• Changes in Census population estimation methods may affect comparisons, particularly for race groups with smaller populations.

Conclusion:

Provisional mortality data indicate a decrease in age-adjusted death rates in 2025.

Sources:

• US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention