Analysis of lifetime death probability for major causes of death among residents in China

Abstract Background Cumulative mortality rate and cumulative mortality risk are two commonly used indicators to measure the impact and severity of diseases. However, they are calculated during a defined life span and assume the subject does not die from other causes. This study aims to use a new indicator, lifetime death probability (LDP), to estimate the lifetime death probabilities for the top five leading causes of death in China and explore the regional differences and trends over time. Methods LDPs were calculated using a probability additive formula and abridged life tables. Results In 2014, LDPs for heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, malignancy, respiratory disease, and injury and poisoning were 24.4, 23.7, 19.2, 15.5, and 5.3%, respectively. The LDPs for heart disease and malignancy increased by 7.3 and 0.5%, respectively, compared to those from 2004 to 2005. In contrast, the LDPs for cerebrovascular and respiratory disease decreased by 1.0 and 3.9%, respectively, compared to those in 2004–2005. Across the eastern, central and western regions, malignancy had the highest LDP in the eastern region, cerebrovascular and heart diseases in the central region, and respiratory diseases, and injury and poisoning in the western region. Conclusions LDP is an effective indicator for comparing health outcomes and can be applied for future disease surveillance. Heart disease and malignancy were the two most common causes of death in China, but with regional differences. There is a need to implement targeted measures to prevent chronic diseases in different regions.