The purpose of this study was to analyze the 1996-1999 Hillsborough County Child Death Review Team (HCCDRT) data. Methods: Data are gathered on standardized data forms during the monthly meetings of the HCCDRT. Using information from the medical examiner and agencies represented, the team compiles data on each death reviewed. Results: From 1996 to 1999 the team reviewed the deaths of 324 children, 193 males and 131 females. The majority of deaths (36.7%) occurred in the under-age-one group, followed by 27.7% of deaths in the 15-to-18-year age group. Most deaths (35.5%) involved white males, followed by white females (23.1%). Approximately 28% of deaths were traffic-related, followed by natural (18.2%) and unintentional injury deaths (17.3%). Approximately 9% of the deaths were due to drowning, with the majority occurring in residential pools. Nearly 13% of the infants died from SIDS, and 5% of the deaths were suicide. Conclusion: Based on the HCCDRT data, motor-vehicle and unintentional injuries are leading causes of death for children in Hillsborough County, Florida. The results of this study indicate that childhood injury programs should be targeted toward traffic injuries and drowning prevention. Education efforts directed at parents should also include information on SIDS and suicide prevention. Analyses are ongoing to determine new trends and directions. The 1999 data analysis is also presented.
Learning Objectives: Describe the purpose of child death review teams. List the major causes of death in each age group. Discuss trends present in the 1996-1999 data.
Keywords: Child/Adolescent, Death
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.