Drownings in Mississippi 1992-1994: frequencies and distribution

This investigation was conducted to determine the mortality rate due to drownings in Mississippi from 1992-1994. Drownings were defined as unintentional deaths from asphyxia while submerged or within 24 hours of submersion. Death certificate data including ICD-9 codes related to drownings, were received from the Mississippi State Department of Health. Variables assessed included age, age category, sex, race, death month, death day, place of drowning, and risk factors. Although drownings occurred in ages from 0-91 years, the highest mortality rates were found in the 14-17 year old age category (1 1.9 deaths per 100,000). Asian and Native American populations had the highest drowning mortality rates (23.6 and 22.6 per 100,000) when analyzed by race. However, this may be primarily due to lower populations. Males drowned five times more frequently than women. This is felt to be related to increased exposure. More drownings occurred on Saturdays and Sundays; and in the months of July, June; May, April, September, and August consecutively. Results presented here identify correlates of drowning fatalities which will enable strategic targeting of prevention programs and resources.