Parents today frequently worry about all sorts of things, and it's easy to lose sight of what dangers really matter and which ones don't.  A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control is a great way to regain perspective on how to save children's lives.  It turns out that the leading causes of severe illness and death in children isn't cancer or diabetes or any medical problem.  The leading cause of death are 'unintentional injuries,' meaning car crashes, suffocation, and other frequently preventable accidents.  It's fascinating reading, and you can see the full report here. 

Some highlights:

Sufocation is the leading cause of death in children under 1 year of age, and most of these occur in the bed.

Car crashes are the leading cause of death after 1 year of age, and most children who die are restrained--but incorrectly.  That's why the single most important job for a new parents is ensuring they install and use car seats properly.

Four times as many children die of injury in some states (for example, Mississippi) than in other states (for example, Massachusetts).  In general, states with higher education and stricter injury-prevention laws have far fewer injury-related deaths.

Twice as many children die of drowning as poisoning, which is why fencing-in swimming pools and teaching water safety are just as important as having the poison control center number handy.

Four times as many children die in fires as they do while riding bicycles--which is why smoke detectors and fire escape plans are just as important as wearing a bike helmet.

It's sobering reading for this time of year, but reports like this one ultimately can save children's lives.