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Tennessee has one of the worst rates of heart disease mortality in the U.S., data shows
By Chasity Maynard at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· June 23, 2026
· 5 min read
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Tennessee has one of the worst rates for heart disease mortality in the country, according to a new analysis by WSMV4 Investigates.The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that Tennessee has the 6th-highest rate of death from heart diseas...
Key takeaway The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that Tennessee has the 6th-highest rate of death from heart disease in the country, at about 210 out of 100,000 people.
Why this matters in The Nashville
Tennessee's ranking as sixth in the nation for heart disease mortality rates has significant implications for the state's healthcare system and residents. The fact that seven other Southern states join Tennessee in the top ten for heart disease mortality suggests a regional challenge that requires a coordinated response. Local health officials and policymakers must consider the underlying factors contributing to this trend, such as high rates of diabetes, obesity, and physical inactivity, and develop targeted interventions to address these issues. In Nashville , this could involve increasing access to healthy food options, expanding recreational spaces and programs to promote physical activity, and supporting education and outreach efforts to raise awareness about heart health. By working together to address these challenges, Tennessee can begin to reduce its heart disease mortality rate and improve the overall health and well-being of its residents.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Tennessee has one of the worst rates for heart disease mortality in the country, according to a new analysis by WSMV4 Investigates.The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that Tennessee has the 6th-highest rate of death from heart diseas...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Chasity Maynard at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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