Epidemiology of child deaths due to drowning in Matlab, Bangladesh

BACKGROUND: Although the recent decline in child mortality in Bangladesh is remarkable, death from causes other than infectious diseases and malnutrition remains an important component of child mortality. Death from drowning of children can be expected to be a problem in Bangladesh given the geographical features of the country. OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this study are to determine the trend, pattern, and correlates of drowning deaths. METHODS: Data are presented on deaths of children (1-4 years) due to drowning derived from a longitudinal, population-based surveillance system in operation in a rural area of Bangladesh in 1983-1995. Moreover, a case-control study was carried out to identify the risk factors associated with drowning. RESULTS: Deaths due to drowning ranged from about 10%…