US Drowning Deaths Rise Sharply After Decades of Decline, CDC Reports

New data highlights significant increases in drowning rates, particularly among Black, Hispanic, and young children, exacerbated by the pandemic.

Accidental drowning deaths in the US have increased by about 10% in recent years, reversing a long-term decline.
Black Americans experienced a nearly 30% rise in drowning rates in 2021, despite spending less time in water than other groups.
Drowning remains the leading cause of death for preschool-age children, with rates increasing almost 30% for this group in 2021 and 2022.
Hispanic Americans saw a 25% increase in drowning deaths in 2022 compared to 2019, the largest rise among racial groups that year.
The CDC emphasizes the importance of swim lessons and safety measures to prevent drowning, especially for at-risk populations.