Recent Deaths: Between 1998 and 2018, the CDC reported 3 deaths directly linked to raw milk consumption in the US.

Case Studies: A 2026 report noted a death from Listeria associated with raw milk, highlighting the continued risk, particularly to newborns, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Total Illness Burden: From 1998 to 2018, there were 202 reported outbreaks, resulting in 2,645 illnesses and 228 hospitalizations in the US.

Deaths from birth control pills are rare, primarily linked to blood clots (venous thromboembolism - VTE) or stroke, especially in smokers over 35, though modern low-dose pills have reduced these risks significantly; estimates suggest around 3 to 10 deaths per million women per year, much lower than risks from pregnancy, with studies showing no overall increased mortality for most users but highlighting specific risks like some cancers with prolonged use and decreased risks for ovarian/endometrial cancers.

Birth control pills vs raw milk.

Which is a public issue

3 deaths in 20 years vs 3 to 10 deaths per million per year.