Final answer:
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, often exacerbated by hypertension and lifestyle factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The overall leading cause of death in the United States is heart disease. This is due in part to lifestyle factors such as a sedentary lifestyle and diets high in trans-fats which can lead to conditions such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. Hypertension, often referred to as high blood pressure, is a condition where the pressure is persistently at or above 140/90 mm Hg, and is a major risk factor that can lead to heart disease, including heart attack or stroke. As such, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing blood pressure are critical in preventing death from cardiovascular diseases.