Significant racial and ethnic disparities occur in drowning death rates in the United States, according to a new CDC report. The study found that from 2019 to 2022, drowning death rates increased for nearly all racial and ethnic groups, with the highest rates among American Indian or Alaska Native (AI/AN) and Black persons.
According to lead author Tessa Clemens, PhD, of the CDC’s Division of Injury Prevention, drowning death rates for AI/AN persons were 2.5 times higher than those for White persons in 2022. Black persons had 1.6 times the rate of White persons. The study also noted that drowning death rates were higher among males compared to females across all racial and ethnic groups.
The findings underscore the need for targeted drowning prevention strategies, particularly in underserved communities. “Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury death, and these disparities highlight the importance of tailored interventions,” said Clemens.
The CDC collaborated with the National Center for Health Statistics and the U.S. Census Bureau to analyze death certificate data and population estimates. The study authors emphasize the need for further research to identify factors contributing to these disparities and to inform effective prevention measures.
“Vital Signs: Drowning Death Rates by Race and Ethnicity — United States, 2019–2022” (May 23, 2024)
