Death in Anchorage in 1986

In 1986, 886 persons died in Anchorage compared to 863 in 1985. The crude death rate was essentially the same in the two years. When age-adjusted, the 1986 Anchorage death rate was higher than in the nation. From 1985 to 1986, cardiovascular deaths increased, cancer deaths were unchanged, and mortality from violence decreased. However, the rate of violent deaths was still three times the national rate and was especially high among Alaska Natives. Motor vehicle fatalities were distinctly fewer in 1986 but continued to be strongly linked to alcohol consumption. Every twenty-first death was from gunfire. Cocaine directly caused eight deaths.