Rising adult drowning deaths in the U.S. linked to alcohol use

In 2022, over 4,500 individuals in the U.S. died from drowning incidents, with more than 70% of these fatalities involving adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a rise in unintentional drowning death rates across nearly all adult age groups from 2020 to 2022, a period marked by COVID-related pool closures and lifeguard shortages. This increase in adult drownings has been largely overlooked compared to childhood drowning cases, which often dominate public awareness and prevention campaigns. Most adult drownings occur in natural bodies of water, such as rivers and oceans, where hidden dangers like strong currents and steep drop-offs can pose significant risks. Experts emphasize that adults often underestimate the dangers of water, particularly when intoxicated, as alcohol impairs judgment and coordination. This impairment can severely affect an individual's ability to respond effectively in emergency situations, increasing the likelihood of drowning. Research indicates that many adults, particularly men, overestimate their swimming abilities, leading to risky behaviors around water. Despite a high self-assessment of swimming skills, less than half of U.S. male adults have taken swimming lessons. This misperception can prevent individuals from recognizing their actual risk levels, contributing to the rising drowning statistics. To address this issue, experts advocate for a shift in drowning prevention strategies to include adults, emphasizing the importance of swimming education and responsible behavior around water. By raising awareness and promoting safety measures, it may be possible to reduce the number of adult drowning incidents in the future.