What is Missouri’s #1 Cause of Death? It Can Kill You Instantly

I don't like to be morbid, but I do think about the end of life more as I get older. If you're curious about the leading causes of death in Missouri, I can warn you that #1 can take your life instantly.

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For this list, I went with the most definitive source I could find which is the Centers for Disease Control. From what I can assess, it appears their list is based on the most recent fatality information regarding Missouri specifically.

Sadly, individuals choosing to end their own lives is now a top 10 leading cause of death. If you or someone you know is considering this, please know you are vital and contact the Missouri Suicide Prevention Network. You can dial 988 anytime and get crisis assistance.

What is normally just a seasonal inconvenience kills more individuals than you think especially those with compromised immune systems.

This one hits home as I have lost several family members to kidney disease which sadly is also sometimes combined with cancer to form a deadly combination.

If you have diabetes, you understand what a challenge it can be to manage. For many it will also eventually take their life sadly.

I've had friends and family in Missouri that have lived through this awful disease and have referred to it as the long, sad goodbye. It's now a top 10 reason why many reach the end of their lives now.

My mother had what is known as a TIA event. I was with her when she started speaking gibberish. What I learned later is she had a mini-stroke which fortunately for her did not end her life. Cancer would do that later. But, for many, a stroke will end their life almost immediately.

It's no secret that Missouri has some of the most deadly roads in America. That's especially true of Highway 63 which runs north/south through the state. It is one of the reasons why accidents now takes too many lives in an instant.

Missouri is unfortunately one of the top states in America when it comes to end of life being brought on by Chronic Lower Respiratory Disease making it the 3rd leading cause of death in the Show Me State.

I'm honestly surprised this isn't number one. I've had so many Missouri family members succumb to cancer I've lost count. It's a dreadful disease to have to endure with someone you love.

What is the #1 killer in Missouri?

It can take your life in quite literally a heartbeat. Heart disease is now the #1 way that most lives end in Missouri. My grandmother had a heart attack that took her instantly. Same for my grandfather. It's a merciless and sometimes instant killer.