American deaths from drugs, alcohol and mental disorders have TRIPLED since 1980

Deaths from alcohol, drugs and mental disorders have almost tripled in the United States since 1980, a new federal study reveals.

More than 2,000 US counties witnessed increases of 200 percent or more in deaths related to substance abuse and mental disorders since 1980.

The worst affected were counties in Kentucky, West Virginia, and Ohio, which saw alarming surges of more than 1,000 percent.

The findings by the University of Washington in Seattle represent the most comprehensive study to date of why and how Americans die.

The research team examined 21 causes of death - from chronic illnesses such as diabetes to infectious diseases including HIV/AIDS, accidents, and drug use.

Cardiovascular disease was the leading cause of death overall in the United States in 2014, though cancers were responsible for the most early deaths.

And drug use has rocketed - particularly in the last decade.

There were marked disparities across the nation.

About half of US counties saw increases in suicide and violence, while the other half of counties experienced decreases. Drug overdoses are far more prevalent in rural areas, the data showed.

The researchers said this points to a need for more tailored healthcare and support programs that take into account each area's leading causes of death.

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