Tuvalu has released its latest Making Death Count report, offering a clearer picture of what’s driving mortality across the country. The analysis—covering July 2024 to June 2025—comes from the Pacific Regional Cause of Death Coding Service, using automated ICD‑10 coding (Iris software) to improve accuracy and consistency of national health data. High‑quality cause‑of‑death data is essential for targeting health resources, shaping policy, and strengthening health systems. With Fiji, Tonga, and Tuvalu now piloting a regional approach, the quality and reliability of mortality data are improving significantly.
Key Findings
Non‑communicable diseases (NCDs) remain the country’s biggest health challenge.
1. Diseases of the circulatory system – 24.1%
Heart disease and stroke continue to be the leading killers.
2. Endocrine, nutritional & metabolic diseases – 18.5%
Driven overwhelmingly by diabetes mellitus.
3. Cancers (neoplasms) – 15.7%
Female cancers—including breast and genital organ cancers—show a notable burden.
4. External causes (injuries, accidents) – 6.5%
Transport accidents represent almost half of these deaths.
5. Respiratory diseases – 5.6%
Chronic respiratory conditions and pneumonia appear most frequently.
Tuvalu’s mortality landscape remains dominated by chronic diseases—especially heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, improved data systems and regional collaboration are giving the country a stronger evidence base to respond. Targeted NCD strategies, better maternal and child health services, and ongoing data‑quality improvements will be key to reducing preventable deaths in the coming years.
