CDC REPORTS ON HOMICIDE RATES AMONG PERSONS AGED 10-24

FROM:  CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION 
Homicide Death Rates Among Persons Aged 10–24 Years — United States, 1981–2010
CDC Media Relations
404-639-3286

Homicide disproportionately affects youth and consistently ranks in the top three leading causes of death for young people. From 1981 through 2010, youth homicide rates varied substantially with a sharp rise from 1985 to 1993 followed by a decline that has slowed since 1999. Recent declines have been significantly slower for males, non-Hispanic black youth, and firearm homicides. Even with the slower downward trend in recent years, the homicide rate in 2010 for youth aged 10-24 (7.5 per 100,000) is the lowest in the 30-year period examined. Youth homicides resulted in more than 4,800 deaths and an estimated $9 billion in lost productivity and medical costs in 2010. Primary prevention strategies for schools, families, and neighborhoods remain critical, particularly those that engage high-risk groups. The youth homicide rate in 2010 was the lowest in the 30-years examined. Rates have declined since 1994, but this promising decline has slowed in recent years, especially for groups at high risk for violence. Homicide still ranks in the top three leading causes of death for young people.