COVID-19 is identified as the leading cause of death in Nepal, based on available data. This respiratory illness has had a significant impact on the country's public health landscape, surpassing other prevalent health concerns in terms of mortality.
Major Causes of Mortality in Nepal
While COVID-19 currently leads, several other health conditions and external factors contribute significantly to mortality rates in Nepal. Understanding these primary causes is crucial for public health initiatives and healthcare planning.
Here's a breakdown of the leading causes of death in Nepal:
| Cause of Death | Relative Impact (Index) |
|---|---|
| COVID-19 | 96.6 |
| Ischaemic heart disease | 82.4 |
| Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease | 66.6 |
| Stroke | 42.6 |
| Road injury | 41.5 |
Ischaemic heart disease (IHD) remains a substantial health burden, reflecting the global trend of non-communicable diseases. It encompasses conditions where the heart's blood supply is restricted, often leading to heart attacks.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is another major contributor, indicative of long-term lung conditions often linked to factors such as air pollution, smoking, and occupational exposures, which are pertinent issues in many regions.
Stroke, a condition affecting the brain's blood supply, and road injuries, a significant concern in developing countries due to traffic safety challenges, also account for a notable number of deaths.
These statistics highlight the dual challenge Nepal faces, dealing with both infectious diseases like COVID-19 and a growing burden of non-communicable diseases and injuries. Addressing these varied causes requires comprehensive public health strategies, including preventive measures, improved healthcare access, and public awareness campaigns.
