Medical Health Encyclopedia

Death among children and adolescents


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SUICIDE

Overall teenage suicide rates in the 1990's were higher than those in the 1980's for all races. It is important to watch teens for signs of stress, depression, and suicidal behavior. Two-way communication between the troubled adolescent and parents or persons of trust is extremely important in preventing adolescent suicide.

HOMICIDE

Homicide is one of the most disturbing causes of death among children and adolescents. Sociologists feel that the increase of gangs, teenage homicide, teenage suicide, teenage pregnancy, school drop-out, and other problems are a reflection of a rapidly changing society and family structure. Homicide is a complex issue which does not have a simple answer. Prevention will require understanding of the root cause and a willingness on the part of the public to change those causes.




AUTO ACCIDENTS

The automobile accounts for the largest number of these accidental deaths. Make sure that all infants and children use the proper child car seats, booster seats, and seat belts.

Other top causes of accidental death are drowning, fire, falls, and poisoning.



Review Date: 07/26/2010
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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