## How Many People Die Annually from Scuba Diving?
Scuba diving is a popular recreational activity, but it can also be dangerous. According to the Divers Alert Network (DAN), there were 1,120 scuba diving fatalities between 1989 and 2018. This means that an average of 62 people die from scuba diving each year.
### Causes of Scuba Diving Deaths
The most common cause of scuba diving deaths is drowning. Other causes include:
Decompression sickness: This is a condition that can occur when a diver ascends too quickly from a deep dive. DCS can cause pain, paralysis, and even death.
Cardiac arrest: This is a sudden loss of heart function. Cardiac arrest can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart disease, stress, and dehydration.
Pulmonary embolism: This is a blockage of an artery in the lungs. Pulmonary embolism can be caused by blood clots, gas bubbles, or other foreign objects.
Other medical conditions: Scuba diving can be dangerous for people with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, epilepsy, and heart disease.
### Risk Factors for Scuba Diving Deaths
There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of death from scuba diving, including:
Lack of experience: Divers who are new to the sport are more likely to make mistakes that can lead to accidents.
Poor training: Divers who are not properly trained are more likely to be injured or killed while scuba diving.
Diving in dangerous conditions: Diving in deep water, cold water, or strong currents can increase the risk of accidents.
Diving alone: Diving alone is more dangerous than diving with a buddy.
Using faulty equipment: Using faulty equipment can increase the risk of accidents.
### How to Reduce the Risk of Scuba Diving Deaths
There are a number of things that divers can do to reduce the risk of death from scuba diving, including:
Get proper training: Take a scuba diving course from a certified instructor.
Dive with a buddy: Never dive alone.
Dive in safe conditions: Choose a dive site that is appropriate for your experience level and the conditions.
Use proper equipment: Make sure your equipment is in good condition and that you know how to use it properly.
Be aware of the risks: Scuba diving is a potentially dangerous activity. Be aware of the risks and take steps to minimize them.
### Conclusion
Scuba diving is a popular recreational activity, but it can also be dangerous. By taking the proper precautions, divers can reduce the risk of death from scuba diving.