- Hypertension is also very high. Estimates from a f selected screening programs, primarily in district centers, put the incidence around 10 - 15% of the population. Again, like diabetes, both the nakure of the disease and its magnitude in this population are not well krfown. Both research as well as health delivery/education programs are needed on this disease as well. Several additional specific disease areas are] dealt with below. TABLE 4 17 LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH (MARSHALL ISLANDS 1974-1976) Number of Casbs 1. Cancer 33 2. Cerebral Vascular Diseases 33 3. Prematurity 25 4. Heart diseases 24 5. Gastroenteritis/intestinal diseases 24 6. Pneumonia 23 7. 8. Inanition (relating to senility) 21 Diabetes 19 9. 10. Chronic Lung Conditions Nonmaternal conditions associated 18 ll. Accidents 12 12. Suicide 12 13. Meningitis 11 14. Chronic Gastro-related conditions 10 15. Congenital Defects 10 16. Kidney Diseases 17. Nutritional Deficiencies with delivery . 14 (Source: TTPI Five Year Comprehensive Health Plan, April 1, 1980) 10