Disparities in Anemia and Heart Failure-Related Deaths: Insights from a 23-Year National Analysis

Anemia and heart failure (HF) often coexist, contributing to increased morbidity and mortality. This study analyzed mortality trends linked to anemia and HF in U.S. adults aged ≥ 25 years from 1999-2022, focusing on demographic, geographic, and urban-rural disparities.

Mortality data from CDC records were analyzed. AAMRs per 1000,000 and annual percentage changes (APCs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using Joinpoint Regression.

From 1999-2022, total deaths amounted to 254,903 deaths for adults (25- 85 + years of age) due to anemia and HF. Sex analysis revealed consistently higher mortality in men, with a sharp rise post-2016. By race, Black populations exhibited the highest rates, followed by White and Hispanic groups, while Asian or Pacific Islander populations showed the lowest. Urban-rural analysis indicated persistently higher rates in rural areas. Geographic disparities showed that the Midwest and South had the highest rates, while the Northeast had the lowest. States like Rhode Island and West Virginia reported the highest rates, contrasting with Nevada and Arizona, which had the lowest.

Mortality due to anemia and HF rose significantly post-2016 across all groups, highlighting disparities by sex, race, location, and region. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and equitable healthcare strategies to address these disparities.