1 in 5 deaths globally is associated with poor diet

Conditions linked to a poor diet caused 11 million deaths in adults in 2017, roughly a fifth of all deaths that year, according to a new study. Here’s a closer look at the findings:

• Disease type: Cardiovascular disease was the biggest contributor to diet-related deaths, accounting for 10 million, followed by different types of cancer and type 2 diabetes.
• Nutritional deficiencies: High sodium intake, low intake of whole grains, and inadequate fruit consumption together accounted for a total of 8 million deaths. People consumed about 90% more processed meat and salt per day than the optimum amount.
• Country breakdown: Among the 20 most populous countries, China had the highest rate of diet-related cardiovascular deaths, with 299 deaths per 100,000 people. Japan had the lowest rate of these deaths — 69 deaths per 100,000 people — and the lowest rate of diet-related diabetes deaths.