Unintentional Strangulation Deaths from the "Choking Game" Among Youths Aged 6--19 Years --- United States, 1995--2007
"In this study, few of the parents of children who
died had been familiar with the choking game. Parents, educators, and health-care providers should learn about the choking game and be able to recognize any of the following warning signs in youths: mention of the choking game (or the game by its other names); bloodshot
eyes; marks on the neck; frequent, severe headaches; disorientation after spending time alone; and ropes, scarves, and belts tied to bedroom furniture or doorknobs or found knotted on the floor (2). Medical examiners and coroners should be aware of the choking game as a possible explanation for deaths from self-inflicted strangulation in this age group that otherwise might be miscategorized as suicides (1,2). In addition, better mortality surveillance is needed, and more research should be conducted (e.g., questions on youth-behavior surveys regarding awareness of and involvement in the choking game) to determine prevalence, risk factors, and protective factors that will lead to effective interventions aimed at reducing or eliminating choking-game participation and deaths." Read the
full article at MMWR Weekly
Response Action from the DB Foundation:
ATTENTION PARENTS OF CHOKING GAME VICTIMS
In light of the U.S. CDC Choking Game study, we are seeking to accurately compile data as to the numbers of Choking Game Victims as reported by parents and guardians. The CDC study only included victims age 9 - 19 whose story appeared in the media. We are accutely aware that many incidences did not go through the media but came to be known via direct contact with a Choking Game Awareness organization. Unfortunately, those victims were excluded in the CDC study. To compile a correct approximate number of valid, fatal Choking
Game victims, all need to be included in a follow-up study. If you are the parent or guardian of a choking game victim, please take a moment and complete a short survey Choking Game Victim's Database Questionnaire. Thank you!
(or copy and paste this address into your browser) http://www.emailmeform.com/fid.php?formid=51066
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health - Ontario Canada
About
79,000 Ontario students in Grades 7 to 12 have reported participating in the "choking game," which involves self-asphyxiation or being purposely strangled by someone else in a bid to get high, according to a new survey.
"Activities such as the choking game are not new, but it is important that parents are aware of these behaviours and are prepared to speak with their children about the dangers of these and other risky activities," said Dr. David Wolfe, director of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
Figures provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada show that between 1990 and 2005, 74 youngsters showed up in emergency wards after playing the game. There was one death.
Many of the injuries came as a result of young people falling as they blacked
out. Almost three quarters of those 74 patients were male and the median age was 12.1 years.
In 63 cases, half the incidents occured at school and just under a quarter happened in the home. Incidents peaked at noon (19.4%) and in March (18.9%)
But the Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program notes that the problem is likely much more wide-spread. "Since individuals with no residual injuries or those who died may not present to the emergency department, this type of surveillance can only capture a very small proportion of these cases. More and broader research needs to be done to track and determine the scope of this problem,"it says.
07.13.08 Friday at 9 PM on "Dr.G Medical Examiner" on Discovery Health Channel
Leesburg Florida Choking Game victim, David "Cody" Hudson will be featured on Dr G Medical Examiner.
Coty was only 12 years old in September of 2007 when he tragically passed away playing the Choking Game.
Left
behind is a family who now tirelessly strives to raise awareness for a killer they didn't know. Instead of having his grandson as co-pilot, Grampa Jim's truck now never leaves home without a warning for all, "The Choking Game will Kill You".
DB Foundation Programs
National Database of Choking Game Victims A documented database of Choking Game victims across the U.S. and abroad. Please list
your loved one here. Each entry continues to show the desperate need for education and awareness.
Message Board A forum for families suffering a loss, advocates raising awareness and a place for general questions to be answered. Join us in real time to share.
Victim's tribute page for parents to share a picture and short bio of their child. Contact The DB Foundation to submit your loved one's tribute.
Community Awareness Packet filled with tools to raise awareness in your community.
Calendar of Seminars and Events filled with engagements of Speakers and Advocates
"Life After The Choking Game" Submit your personal story of how the Choking Game has affected you. Email us - your words could make the difference in someone else's life!
Help make a difference - it could save a child you know! | | |
