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Heart Disease Still Claims 700,000 Lives Annually

7/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Vox editorial director recounts his journey through a coronary artery calcium scan, which revealed a 2.1% risk of cardiovascular issues. While heart attack deaths in the U.S. have plummeted by nearly 90% since 1970, thanks to decreased smoking and better treatments, heart disease still tragically takes 700,000 lives each year, underscoring the persistent health battle.

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Story summary

A Vox editorial director recounts his journey through a coronary artery calcium scan, which revealed a 2.1% risk of cardiovascular issues. While heart attack deaths in the U.S. have plummeted by nearly 90% since 1970, thanks to decreased smoking and better treatments, heart disease still tragically takes 700,000 lives each year, underscoring the persistent health battle.