Despite all the promises that are made about expensive tests offered by private clinics, there remains hard evidence that doing many tests does not necessarily mean better health and health outcomes. When we look at the common causes of death in Canada, two categories stand out: Cardiovascular disease and cancer accounting for more than 50% of all causes dwarfing everything else that remains in the single digits.

What we do know is that there are straightforward approaches to preventing many of these diseases and that although genetics plays a role, it is not a foregone conclusion that it will result in disease.

Further a recent study points to how metabolic syndrome can lead to early-age onset dementia. It all flows together when we consider how everything is related when it comes to how our bodes work.

Based on the most recent available data from Statistics Canada and other reliable sources, the ten leading causes of death in Canada for 2023 are as follows, along with their approximate contributions to total deaths where available. These are ranked based on the number of deaths and align with the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) groupings. Note that the exact rankings and numbers may vary slightly depending on the year and specific data updates, but this reflects the most current picture.

Ten Leading Causes of Death in Canada (2023)

• Cancer (Malignant Neoplasms)
  • Contribution: Approximately 26-29% of all deaths (~86,700 deaths in 2023).
  • Details: Cancer, particularly lung, breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers, remains the leading cause of death. High tobacco use, poor diet, and aging populations contribute. Preventable through lifestyle changes (e.g., quitting smoking, healthy diet) and early screening.

• Heart Disease (Diseases of the Heart)
  • Contribution: Approximately 17-22% of all deaths (~57,357–144.4 per 100,000 population in 2023).
  • Details: Includes ischemic heart disease and heart attacks. Risk factors like sedentary lifestyles, high-fat diets, and smoking are preventable through exercise and diet.

• Accidents (Unintentional Injuries)
  • Contribution: Approximately 6% of all deaths (~19,257 deaths in 2021, trend continued).
  • Details: Includes vehicle accidents, falls (especially in those over 65), and accidental poisonings. Leading cause for ages 0–44. Preventable through safety measures and awareness.

• Cerebrovascular Diseases (Stroke)
  • Contribution: 4% of deaths (13,491 deaths in 2021, trend continued).
  • Details: Caused by interrupted blood flow to the brain, often linked to high sodium intake and hypertension. Preventable through diet and blood pressure management.

• Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases (e.g., COPD, Asthma)
  • Contribution: 3-4% of deaths (11,018 deaths in 2021, trend continued).
  • Details: Linked to smoking and air pollution. Preventable through smoking cessation and reducing exposure to pollutants.

• Diabetes Mellitus
  • Contribution: 2% of deaths (7,472 deaths in 2021, 19.4 per 100,000 in 2022).
  • Details: Type 2 diabetes is a growing issue, linked to obesity and inactivity. Preventable through diet, exercise, and weight management.

• Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Contribution: 1.5-2% of deaths (5,471 deaths in 2021, trend continued).
  • Details: Affects older adults, more common in women. Preventable to some extent through mental stimulation, exercise, and healthy diet.

• Chronic Liver Disease and Cirrhosis
  • Contribution: 1.5% of deaths (4,617 deaths in 2021, trend continued).
  • Details: Often linked to alcohol abuse and hepatitis. Preventable through moderation of alcohol and vaccinations.

• Influenza and Pneumonia
  • Contribution: 1-2% of deaths (4,115 deaths in 2021, trend continued).
  • Details: Affects the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. Preventable through vaccinations and hygiene.

• Suicide (Intentional Self-Harm)
  • Contribution: 1% of deaths (2,923 deaths in 2021, trend continued).
  • Details: A significant issue, especially for younger adults and men. Preventable through mental health support and early intervention.

Your Calls and Comments:

• How effective is Rybelsus when treating overweight or obesity?
• A man developed shingles on April 23 and has diagnostic imaging tests scheduled for the third week in May. Rash is disappearing. He would like to know if it is safe for him to attend this appointment without endangering others.
• Effects of stress on health
• An 82 year old woman would like to know if she should get her eight covid vaccine now.

Playlist

1st segment

Intro:  Walk of Life – Dire Straits

Outro: I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – The Proclaimers

2nd segment

Intro: Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny) -Elton John

Outro: Don’t Stop – Fleetwood Mac

3rd segment

Intro: Ain’t No Man – The Avett Brothers

Outro: Alive and Kicking – Simple Minds

4th segment

Intro:  Doctor My Eyes- Jackson Browne

Outro: Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me- Elton John