Exploring Regional Factors Associated with Mortality in Showt City, Northwest of Iran: A Study in Environmental, Socioeconomic, And Lifestyle Epidemiology

Introduction: Mortality is influenced by demographic, socioeconomic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This study investigated the factors associated with mortality in Showt City, West Azerbaijan, Iran, between 2015 and 2019. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, data from 260 deceased individuals were collected using structured questionnaires and interviews with first-degree relatives. Information on demographic characteristics, causes of death (ICD-10), and associated factors was analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results: Among the 260 deceased individuals, 58.5% (n = 152) were male and 41.5% (n = 108) were female, with a mean age at death of 66.49 ± 23.36 years. The highest proportion of deaths occurred in those aged ≥ 74 years (46.5%). Cardiovascular disease was the leading cause of death (38.1%). Major risk factors included smoking (51.9%), complete lack of regular physical activity (100%), illiteracy (64.2%), low monthly income (< 2.5 million Tomans, 51.9%), low consumption of vegetables (48.8% consumed only once per week), and high fast-food intake (36.9%). Environmental conditions were relatively favorable (safe water access: 97.7%; proper sewage system: 100%). Conclusion: This study highlights the significant burden of cardiovascular disease and the critical role of modifiable lifestyle factors, such as smoking, physical inactivity, and poor nutrition, in mortality rates in Showt City. The findings provide important local evidence for health policymakers to develop targeted interventions to reduce preventable deaths in the region.