Final answer:
The top three leading causes of death in the United States in 2021 were cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and COVID-19.
Step-by-step explanation:
The top three leading causes of death in the United States in 2021 were:
- Cardiovascular diseases: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally and involves diseases related to the heart or blood vessels. Risk factors include hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, and lack of exercise.
- Cancer: Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth. Lung cancer and skin cancer are some of the most common types. Risk factors include tobacco smoking, overexposure to ultraviolet light, and certain dietary habits.
- COVID-19: COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, emerged as a leading cause of death in 2020 and continued to have a significant impact in 2021. It is a respiratory illness that spreads through respiratory droplets, and preventive measures such as vaccination and wearing masks can help reduce its spread.