Canadian Deceased Registry reports that 21,504 Canadians passed away in October 2024. This represents a minimal 0.9% increase in deaths from October 2023 to October 2024 and a significantly larger 11.7% increase in deaths from September 2024 to October 2024. The average age of death in October 2024 remained consistent with the last 4 months, at 77 years old.
October 2024—Key Statistical Highlights:
- The only provinces to see a decrease in deaths from October 2023 to October 2024 were Manitoba (-9.2%), Nova Scotia (-3.1%), British Columbia (-3%) and Newfoundland (-1.2%).
- The provinces that saw the biggest increase in deaths from October 2023 to October 2024 were Saskatchewan (5.8%), P.E.I. (5.7%) and New Brunswick (5.1%).
- No provinces saw a decrease in deaths from September 2024 to October 2024.
- The provinces that saw the biggest increase in deaths from September 2024 to October 2024 were P.E.I. (24.6%), British Columbia (18.9%), and Quebec (16.8%).
Analysis and Potential Factors Influencing Mortality Rates:
The notable year-over-year and month-over-month increase in mortality rates might point to seasonal health issues, such as the onset of colder weather or respiratory illnesses, which can heavily impact older or at-risk populations. As temperatures drop, respiratory illnesses tend to spike, posing heightened risks to older adults and those with pre-existing conditions. The spread of these respiratory illnesses can cause strain on healthcare systems and limit access to timely care. During these periods of high demand, wait times increase, hospital beds decrease, which can be especially impactful in provinces with aging populations or where healthcare resources are less concentrated, contributing to mortality spikes during this season.
About The Data
The data presented in this report was summarized by the Canadian Deceased Registry, Canada’s only national registry of deceased Canadians. To learn more about the database or for licensing information, submit your inquiry using our contact web form.
The Canadian Deceased Registry is a vital component of the nation’s record-keeping system, dedicated to providing comprehensive, up-to-date, and accurate information regarding deceased citizens in Canada.
