HEALTH
STATUS
Priority Area
Prevent and Control Injuries
The age-adjusted
motor vehicle-related fatality rate for the total population has declined
in recent years and has more than met the year 2000 objective since
1990. Relatively high death rates are found in the young (15 through
24 years) and elderly (70 years and older) age groups. Positive findings
are that the fatality rate among 15 through 24 year olds has decreased
over the period and now meets the year 2000 target. The fatality rate
in the elderly population has been higher than in 15 through 24 year
olds since 1989, has been rising consistently since 1994, and will not
meet the year 2000 objective if current trends continue.
The homicide
death rate among minority males aged 15 through 44 has fluctuated widely
and, after meeting the target in 1994 and then rising in 1995, the rate
in 1997 was again below the target. It appears likely that the year
2000 target can be achieved. The homicide death rate among minority
females in this age group has shown a slightly decreasing pattern during
the past twelve years and also appears likely to achieve the year 2000
objective.
The death
rate from suicide among white males 65 years and over was so far below
the original year 2000 objective set in 1991, that a more ambitious target
was set. Since 1994, the rate has stabilized at a level slightly above
the target and it is unlikely that the revised target will be met. Although
the suicide death rate in 15 through 24 year olds increased in 1992 and
1993 after meeting the year 2000 target, the rate met its target again
in 1996 and 1997. The overall trend in recent years has been downward
and if it continues, it is likely that the year 2000 target will be met.
Return
to Health Statistics 1997
Next Health Status section
|
