Mortality Pattern of Cardiovascular Diseases Among Young People (Aged 15–29 Years) in Iran

Abstract

Background and Objectives: In the context of the epidemiological transition, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), have become a major challenge for the health system. Premature deaths attributable to these conditions during young adulthood have substantial demographic consequences. This study examined the four-decade trend of cardiovascular disease mortality among young people in Iran and its provincial distribution to identify geographic hotspots.

Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was based on secondary data analysis. Data were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study. Population and cause-specific mortality data, stratified by sex, age, and province, were extracted for the period 1981–2023. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel to calculate percentages and mortality rates. Geographic Information System (GIS) software was used to map the provincial distribution of mortality, and SPSS was employed to examine the association between the level of development and mortality rates.

Results: Although overall mortality among young people has declined over the past four decades, cardiovascular diseases continue to account for a considerable proportion of premature deaths. In 2021, they were responsible for 7.8% of all deaths among individuals aged 15–29 years. Ischemic heart disease and stroke were the leading causes of cardiovascular mortality, with substantially higher mortality among young men than young women. Furthermore, spatial analyses revealed marked provincial inequalities in the distribution of cardiovascular mortality and a significant inverse association between mortality rates and the level of regional development.

Conclusion:  Despite the overall decline in youth mortality, youth mortality from cardiovascular diseases, especially in deprived areas, remains challenging. Therefore, implementing targeted interventions including periodic screenings, healthy lifestyle promotion, and equitable healthcare resource allocation is crucial for reducing the disease burden and securing the country’s demographic window.