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Hypothermia deaths in Jefferson County, Alabama
A J Taylor1, G McGwin, G G Davis
1Center for Injury Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA.
Summary
Hypothermia deaths in Alabama disproportionately affect elderly individuals indoors and middle-aged males outdoors, often linked to alcohol consumption. This study details the epidemiology of these tragic cold exposure fatalities.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Hypothermia mortality is associated with older age, alcohol use, male gender, and Black race.
- Jefferson County, Alabama, serves as the focus for this epidemiological study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the epidemiology of hypothermia deaths in Jefferson County, Alabama.
- To identify demographic and situational factors contributing to hypothermia fatalities.
Main Methods:
- Autopsy reports from January 1983 to July 1999 were reviewed.
- Cases with primary or underlying causes of death as hypothermia or cold exposure were abstracted.
Main Results:
- Sixty-three hypothermia deaths occurred; the average age was 68, with 63.9% males and 70% Black.
- Hypothermia death rates were highest among Black males, followed by Black females (especially those 80+).
- Alcohol was detected in 30% of decedents, primarily those found outdoors; 90% had chronic medical conditions.
Conclusions:
- Hypothermia deaths in Jefferson County primarily impact two groups: elderly individuals indoors and middle-aged males outdoors with alcohol consumption.
- Risk factors include advanced age, male sex, Black race, alcohol use, and pre-existing medical conditions.
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