Alaska's Diverse Populations Show Extreme Variations in Death Rates by Cause
A study published in The Lancet reveals that Alaska Natives in certain rural areas have the highest death rates from suicide, domestic violence, and accidental deaths, while Asians and Latinos in the state have some of the lowest rates for deaths from various conditions. Alaska Natives in the Kusilvak Census Area had the highest rates of intentional self-harm and interpersonal violence, as well as accidental deaths. Asians and Latinos in coastal areas had the lowest rates of death from cardiovascular diseases, digestive diseases, neurological disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, and chronic respiratory diseases. The study also highlights the high rates of death during pregnancy or childbirth among Black women and newborns, particularly in the U.S. South and Midwest. The findings suggest systemic racism as a root cause of these health disparities.
