Question

what are the two leading causes of death in adults ages 45-65?

a.) suicide and heart disease
b.) heart disease and cancer
c.) diabetes and accidents
d.) accidents and cancer

Explanation:

Identify the developmental stage

The question asks about the leading causes of death in adults aged 45–65. This age range corresponds to Middle Adulthood Development.

Analyze mortality trends in middle adulthood

In early adulthood, accidental injuries (unintentional injuries) are the leading cause of death. However, as individuals transition into middle adulthood (ages 45–65), chronic biological conditions become the predominant causes of mortality.

Compare the leading causes

According to public health data (such as from the CDC), the two leading causes of death for the 45–65 age cohort are:

1. Cancer (malignant neoplasms)
2. Heart disease (cardiovascular disease)

Together, these two chronic conditions account for the vast majority of deaths in this age group, with cancer typically being the leading cause, closely followed by heart disease.

Evaluate the given options

• a.) Suicide and heart disease: Suicide is a leading cause in younger cohorts but is not in the top two for ages 45–65.
• b.) Heart disease and cancer: This matches the established epidemiological data for middle-aged adults.
• c.) Diabetes and accidents: While both are significant, they do not surpass cancer and heart disease.
• d.) Accidents and cancer: Accidents (unintentional injuries) drop to a lower ranking in this age group compared to heart disease.

Answer:

• a.) Suicide and heart disease
• b.) Heart disease and cancer (Correct answer)
• c.) Diabetes and accidents
• d.) Accidents and cancer