The European Union recorded 5.16 million deaths in 2022, with circulatory diseases and cancer being the top causes. Data from Eurostat shows that circulatory diseases accounted for the highest number of deaths, followed by cancer. Respiratory diseases, COVID-19, and external causes also contributed, but at significantly lower numbers.
COVID-19 deaths ranked below respiratory diseases, showing a decline in direct fatalities. However, experts argue that the long-term effects of the virus remain underestimated. Many COVID-related deaths may have been classified under other causes like heart attacks, blood clots, or pneumonia.
Some medical professionals highlight concerns about undiagnosed conditions due to pandemic disruptions. Delayed cancer screenings and untreated chronic illnesses may have indirectly contributed to increased deaths. Additionally, research suggests links between COVID-19 and inflammatory conditions like pancreatitis, heart disease, and long-term respiratory issues.
While some families contested COVID-19 being listed as a cause of death, others believe its impact is still being uncovered. Studies continue to explore its role in triggering underlying health issues, raising concerns that the true toll of the virus may never be fully known.
In the bigger picture, lifestyle-related factors like smoking, diet, and lack of healthcare access remain significant contributors to mortality. As COVID-19 moves away from being a dominant cause of death, its long-term health effects remain a subject of study.