Study Finds Police Officers Die Younger Than General Public

National research shows law enforcement face higher mortality rates from heart disease, cancer, suicide, and COVID-19.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A new study published in The Lancet Regional Health ‒ Americas journal has found that law enforcement officers tend to die younger than the general population, with the key differences emerging in their mid-40s. The study, co-authored by J.C. Barnes of the University of Cincinnati's School of Criminal Justice, suggests the psychological demands of policing may accelerate long-term health risks for officers.

Why it matters

This study highlights the significant health challenges faced by first responders and law enforcement, who are tasked with serving and protecting their communities. The findings underscore the need for police departments to prioritize officer wellness programs and mental health support to address the unique stresses of the job.

The details

The study found that officers die from the same major causes as the public, just earlier. Cancer was the leading cause of death among female law enforcement officers, while circulatory conditions were the leading causes of death among male law enforcement officers. The study also found higher mortality rates from suicide and COVID-19 among officers during the pandemic years.

  • The study was published in The Lancet Regional Health ‒ Americas journal in 2026.

The players

J.C. Barnes

Director of the University of Cincinnati's School of Criminal Justice and co-author of the study.

Peter Tanksley

Lead author of the study and a research scientist at Texas State University, who is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati.

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What they’re saying

“The study's findings show officers die from the same major causes as the public, just earlier, with the difference emerging in their mid-40s.”

— The Canton Repository (The Canton Repository)

What’s next

Local police departments are implementing wellness programs to address the physical and mental stress of the job, according to The Canton Repository.

The takeaway

This study underscores the urgent need for police departments to prioritize comprehensive health and wellness programs to support the long-term wellbeing of their officers, who face unique occupational hazards that can take a significant toll on their physical and mental health.