Sociology
The Epidemiological Transition and the Shift Toward Chronic Disease Burdens
Quick fact
In the early 20th century, infectious diseases like pneumonia and tuberculosis were the leading causes of death in the US; by the late 20th century, chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer had taken over, alongside a rise in life expectancy from around 47 to 77 years.
Why this is interesting
You probably know that heart disease and cancer are major causes of death today. But have you ever wondered why people used to die more from infections and malnutrition?