A sweeping 21-year review of U.S. mortality data reveals stark racial disparities in deaths among older adults with both heart failure and pneumonia. While overall rates declined until 2018, the pandemic years triggered a sharp reversal—hitting minority communities hardest.
Non-Hispanic White adults had the highest overall mortality rate at 56.7 per 100,000, but the most alarming trend was the surge among Hispanic and Black populations between 2018 and 2020. Mortality in these groups spiked by more than 44%, compared to a 13.8% rise among Whites. “The most pronounced rises were seen in NH Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino populations,” the study reports, underscoring how systemic vulnerabilities magnified pandemic impacts.
Asian and Pacific Islander adults consistently had the lowest rates at 31.6 per 100,000, yet even this group saw increases during the pandemic. American Indian and Alaska Native communities also faced elevated mortality, reflecting persistent inequities in access to care.
Researchers point to socioeconomic barriers, limited preventive services, and pandemic-related disruptions as key drivers. Minority groups were disproportionately affected by COVID-19, compounding risks for those already managing chronic heart failure. These findings highlight the urgent need for culturally tailored interventions, expanded vaccination programs, and equitable healthcare delivery to prevent further widening of these gaps.
See: “Mortality Trends in Heart Failure and Pneumonia Among US Adults Aged 65 and Older: Analysis of CDC WONDER Data” (August 28, 2025)
