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US Life Expectancy Hits Record High in 2024 Amid Declining Death Rates

KVIA•Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 5:01 AM•CNN Newsource

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In 2024, life expectancy in the United States reached an all-time high of 79 years, marking a significant recovery from the pandemic's impact. The CDC reported a 4% decrease in the overall death rate, with nearly 3.1 million deaths recorded. Notably, drug overdose deaths dropped by over 26%, and Covid-19 was no longer among the top ten causes of death, replaced by suicide. Despite improvements, disparities in death rates persist, particularly among American Indian and Black men. The data highlights ongoing public health challenges, including rising suicide rates and infant mortality, which remains a concern.

Key Details: • Life expectancy at birth is now 79 years, the highest recorded. • In 2024, there were 722 deaths per 100,000 people, totaling approximately 3.1 million deaths. • Drug overdose deaths decreased by over 26%, with fentanyl involvement dropping significantly. • Suicide has replaced Covid-19 as a leading cause of death, with over 14 million adults reporting serious thoughts of suicide. • Infant mortality remains a concern, with more than 20,000 infants dying before their first birthday in 2024.

health suicide covid-19 life-expectancy drug-overdose

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CDCSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

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