A MINUTE OF HEALTH WITH CDC
The Choking Game Can Be Deadly
“Choking Game” Deaths Among Youth Aged 6–19 Years — United States,1995–2007
February 21, 2008
This program is presented by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – safer, healthier
people.
It’s called the “choking game,” but it’s no game, and there are no winners. Some
kids are choking themselves or each other, by hand or with some form of noose.
The intent is to get a high, caused by a temporary lack of oxygen to the brain.
Tragically, this so-called ‘game’ sometimes goes too far and results in death.
Parents should be aware of the warning signs of the choking game. Mention of
the choking game or one of the many names it goes by can be a sign, and
bloodshot eyes, marks on the neck, and ropes, belts, or scarves tied to bedposts
or doorknobs are other clues.
If your child is participating in the choking game, let them know that the game
can be deadly.
Thank you for joining us on A Minute of Health with CDC.
To access the most accurate and relevant health information that affects you, your family and
your community, please visit www.cdc.gov.
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