COVID-19 is 3rd leading cause of death in South Dakota

(Pierre, South Dakota) -- The latest mortality reports in South Dakota show that COVID-19 is the third leading cause of death in the state.

The mortality report cites cancer and heart disease as the two highest causes of death, with COVID-19 behind them according to data compiled from January through November of 2021. Just under 8,263 people died from any cause in South Dakota during 2021. You can find the five-page mortality report by clicking here. 

Causes of Death: 2021

- Cancer: 1,579 

- Heart Disease: 1,536

- COVID-19: 630

- Unintentional Injuries: 532

- Chronic Lower Respiratory Disease: 414

- Alzheimer's Disease: 364

- Cause not determined: 63

- All other causes: 3,145