Which of the following statements about health care spending in the U.S. is true? Health care spending is projected to reach \( \$ 8.7 \) trillion by 2026 compared to \( \$ 5.7 \) trillion in 2022 . Health care spending increased in 2022 to \( \$ 4.5 \) trillion compared to \( \$ 3.3 \) trillion in 2016 . Health care spending is projected to decrease by 2026 to \( \$ 3.3 \) trillion from \( \$ 5.7 \) trillion in 2022 . Health care spending decreased in 2022 to \( \$ 3.3 \) trillion from \( \$ 4.5 \) trillion in 2016 .

Health care spending in the U.S. has seen significant increases over the years. For example, in 2022, spending surged to approximately \( \$ 4.5 \) trillion, marking a healthy leap from \( \$ 3.3 \) trillion just six years prior in 2016. This dramatic growth reflects various factors, including advancements in medical technology and an aging population requiring more services. Looking ahead, it's estimated that health care spending could climb to a staggering \( \$ 8.7 \) trillion by 2026. This projection highlights the ongoing expansion and increasing demand for health services in the U.S., underscoring the need for sustainability and innovation within the health care system to manage costs effectively.