Deaths from “choking game” increase
In our day, if we were looking for a “dreamy high”, we would just smoke some weed. Now kids as young as 6 are playing the “choking game”, which is as crazy and dangerous as it sounds — they use various ligatures (rope, scarves, belts) to constrict their airflow until they become lightheaded and euphoric, which is when they are supposed to release the pressure around their neck. Of course, the situation is ripe for things to go horribly wrong:
A federal study of news reports has identified 82 deaths in 31 states from 1995 to October 2007. Fifty-seven children died in 2005 and 2006 alone.
But even if they survive, say experts at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, the “game” might leave them with permanent brain damage, seizure disorders or other disabilities.
The CDC paper is the first attempt to gather national statistics on the phenomenon. The actual number of fatalities is probably higher, the scientists said, because there is no requirement that such deaths be reported as a separate category.
Intentional suicides, autoerotic activity or other questionable deaths by hanging or strangulation were not included.
Information from: http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/health/...
