What are the Leading Causes of Death in Bhutan?
The leading cause of death in Bhutan is ischaemic heart disease, followed by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and stroke. These conditions represent the most significant health challenges contributing to mortality in the country.Understanding these principal causes of death is crucial for public health initiatives and healthcare planning. The figures highlight the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, alongside some infectious diseases, as major contributors to the burden of mortality.
Top Causes of Mortality in Bhutan
Based on available health data, the primary causes of death in Bhutan are as follows:| Cause of Death | Death Rate (per 100,000 population) |
|---|---|
| Ischaemic heart disease | 77.2 |
| Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease | 44.1 |
| Stroke | 38.4 |
| Tuberculosis | 26.8 |
| Cirrhosis of the liver | 24.4 |
Understanding the Leading Causes
Let's briefly examine what each of these leading causes entails:- Ischaemic Heart Disease: This refers to conditions caused by narrowed heart arteries, which reduce blood flow to the heart muscle. It often leads to heart attacks and is a significant global health concern.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A group of progressive lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the most common conditions that contribute to COPD.
- Stroke: Occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes. Strokes can be caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or the leaking or bursting of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).
- Tuberculosis (TB): An infectious disease caused by bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) that primarily affects the lungs but can affect other parts of the body. While treatable, it remains a significant cause of death, particularly in developing nations.
- Cirrhosis of the Liver: A late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by various forms of liver diseases and conditions, such as hepatitis and chronic alcohol abuse. The liver becomes permanently damaged and cannot function properly.
These conditions underscore the importance of preventative healthcare, early diagnosis, and effective treatment strategies to reduce mortality rates in Bhutan.
