The mortality rate of systemic sclerosis varies according to the extent of disease involvement. The prognosis for limited systemic sclerosis is generally good, with patients stabilized for several years. The prognosis for diffuse systemic sclerosis is relatively poor, with a typical 5-year survival rate of 90% and a 10-year survival rate of 84%. The cause of death is mainly due to the involvement of vital organs such as the lungs, kidneys, and heart, and the prognosis is poorer if they are involved. Pulmonary hypertension is the leading cause of death, accounting for 12% of all systemic sclerosis-related deaths, with pulmonary fibrosis and cardiac changes contributing to another 9% of systemic sclerosis-related deaths. Smoking has been found to reduce the overall survival rate of people with systemic sclerosis. Tips: If you are diagnosed with systemic sclerosis, follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment, stop smoking, and be aware of your lifestyle.