Mortality Trends Associated With Acute Myocardial Infarction and Psychoactive Substance Use in Older Adults: A US Nationwide Analysis (1999–2020)

Abstract

Background

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains a leading cause of mortality in the USA, particularly among individuals aged 65 and older. There is limited research about the association between psychoactive substance use and cardiovascular death due to AMI. This study aims to analyze trends in AMI-related mortality among older adults (aged ≥ 65) associated with psychoactive substance use in the USA from 1999 to 2020, with a focus on demographic and geographic variations.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive analysis using death certificates from the CDC's WONDER database. Data were extracted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, urban–rural status, and geographic region. Crude mortality rates and AAMR were calculated, and temporal trends were assessed using Joinpoint regression.

Results

Between 1999 and 2020, there were 231 359 AMI-related deaths among older adults with substance use disorders. Men (39.2) had a markedly higher mortality rate than women (15.0). Mortality rates increased across all age groups, with the most pronounced rise in those aged 85 and older (33.9). Metropolitan areas (22.3) experienced lower mortality rates than nonmetropolitan areas (37.9). The Midwest (32.3) consistently recorded the highest mortality rates, followed by the Northeast (25.0), South (24.5), and West (18.7).

Conclusion

The study reveals notable temporal trends in AMI mortality among older adults with psychoactive substance use, highlighting significant demographic and regional disparities. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address this growing public health issue.