Examining factors contributing to mortality in Saudi Arabia: proposing effective healthcare management approaches

Abstract

Background

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death globally, with their prevalence rising in Saudi Arabia due to unhealthy lifestyles and increased life expectancy. This study investigates the primary causes of mortality in Saudi Arabia, which include cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, and proposes healthcare management strategies to improve mortality outcomes, reduce preventable deaths, and enhance healthcare delivery.

Methods

Secondary quantitative data from the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) and the World Health Organization (WHO) from 2015 to 2022 were analyzed. These years were selected based on data availability, completeness, and consistency to ensure a comprehensive assessment of mortality trends and non-communicable diseases. Data points were excluded if they were incomplete, inconsistent, or lacked proper classification.The study analyzed key variables, including age, gender, and specific causes of death related to non-communicable diseases. Mortality rates and non-communicable diseases were examined using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and linear regression. IBM SPSS Statistics version 27 was used for analysis, while Microsoft Excel facilitated data visualization.

Results

The findings indicate that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of mortality in Saudi Arabia, with ischemic heart disease being the most prevalent. The mean mortality rate for ischemic heart disease was higher in males (133.25 per 100,000, 95% CI: 132.88–133.62) than females (87.84 per 100,000, 95% CI: 87.58–88.10). Stroke mortality rates were comparable between genders, while neoplasms, kidney disease, and diabetes mellitus had lower but notable contributions. Males consistently exhibited higher mortality rates over five years (mean: 102.20 per 1,000) compared to females (81.88 per 1,000). Regression analysis confirmed a significant association between NCDs and mortality (β = -0.917, R² = 0.841, p < 0.001), emphasizing the need for targeted public health interventions.

Conclusion

The high mortality rates from ischemic heart disease, stroke, and other NCDs, particularly among males, highlight the need for targeted interventions. Gender-specific public health campaigns, early detection programs for high-risk individuals, and stronger preventive policies are essential to reducing mortality and improving healthcare outcomes in Saudi Arabia.