Deaths caused by cancer and heart disease, the two leading causes of American fatalities, declined in 1999 according to figures released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, deaths from diabetes and high blood pressure increased.
Heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic lower respiratory disease and unintentional injuries were the leading causes of American deaths in 1999. Government officials are particularly concerned with the HIV mortality rate. After an encouraging 21% decrease in HIV deaths in 1998, 1999 only exhibited a 4% decrease. CDC officials are concerned about complacency in HIV prevention.