Big Drop in Drowning Rates Over the Years

A recent study shows that unintentional drowning has declined between 1990 and 2017 all over the world by almost half following improved policies, prevention, and research efforts.

The unintentional drowning mortality rate decreased by 44.5%, going from 531,956 deaths in 1990 to 295,210 deaths in 2017.

Identified as a public health priority by the World Health Organization, unintentional drowning has been put under the microscope. The Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors study shows a decline in global drowning rates over 28 years, and even though the decline was not consistent across countries, the results reinforce the need for continued and improved policy, prevention, and research efforts, mainly in low- and middle-income countries.