Cardiovascular Statistics in the United States, 2026: JACC Stats.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. JACC Cardiovascular Statistics 2026 reports the most up-to-date data on cardiovascular health in the United States. The report covers major cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cholesterol, and cigarette smoking) and conditions that collectively account for most cardiovascular deaths and disability: coronary heart disease, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, and stroke. OBJECTIVES: JACC Cardiovascular Statistics was developed to provide a clear, comprehensive, and accessible snapshot of cardiovascular health in the United States. An annual synthesis of contemporary cardiovascular statistics is needed to inform patients, clinicians, researchers, public health professionals, policymakers, and the public. METHODS: This report synthesizes data from multiple national sources, including population-based surveys, clinical registries, administrative datasets, and vital statistics. For each risk factor and condition, we evaluated trends in disease epidemiology, quality of care, and morbidity and mortality. Data are presented overall and, where available, stratified by age, sex, race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and geography. Findings are presented using a standardized, visually accessible framework. RESULTS: Cardiovascular risk factors-hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cholesterol, and cigarette smoking-remain prevalent among U.S. adults, with persistent gaps in prevention and treatment. Across cardiovascular conditions-coronary heart disease, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, and stroke-long-term gains in mortality are slowing or reversing, with ongoing gaps in quality of care and persistent health disparities. CONCLUSIONS: JACC Cardiovascular Statistics 2026 provides a comprehensive snapshot of cardiovascular health in the United States, serving as an annual benchmark to guide clinical practice, inform health policy, and promote accountability in efforts to improve cardiovascular health and outcomes for all.

Duke Scholars

Author Neha Pagidipati Medicine, Cardiology

Author Lesley H. Curtis Population Health Sciences