Drowning prevention program comes to a halt at the CDC
14 days ago
- #drowning-prevention
- #CDC
- #public-health
- A CDC drowning prevention program was halted, with experts terminated and proposed elimination in the 2026 budget.
- Drowning is a leading cause of death among children (ages 1-14) and costs the U.S. economy over $50 billion annually.
- The CDC program focused on identifying risk factors and effective prevention strategies, partnering with organizations like the YMCA and Red Cross.
- The program provided free swim lessons for high-risk children, including minority groups and those on the autism spectrum.
- The CDC's $2 million annual budget supported three health scientists and partner initiatives, with bipartisan support initially.
- Termination of the program may limit future drowning prevention efforts, especially in small communities.