While noncommunicable diseases account for most deaths globally, infectious diseases continue to claim a large share of lives in low-income countries, according to new figures from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Seven of the 10 leading causes of death in low-income countries in 2023 were communicable diseases, including malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
The WHO says lower respiratory infections have remained the leading cause of death in low-income countries since around 2010, except in 2021, when COVID-19 temporarily took the top position.
Despite progress in reducing deaths from some infectious diseases, the burden remains substantial. Deaths from lower respiratory infections exceeded 350,000 annually throughout the period from 2000 to 2023, with no notable downward trend.
Diarrhoeal diseases also remain a major concern, ranking fifth among the leading causes of death in low-income countries in 2023. However, deaths from these diseases have fallen by approximately half since 2000.
There has also been progress against HIV/AIDS. Deaths from the disease in low-income countries were 62% lower in 2023 than in 2000.
The findings show that countries with fewer resources continue to face a different pattern of mortality from wealthier nations, where noncommunicable diseases dominate.
The WHO’s figures are based on country income classifications by the World Bank and highlight the need to address infectious diseases alongside emerging chronic disease challenges.
Source: WHO – The top 10 causes of death, published 2 October 2026.
