N.S. Child Death and Review Committee analyzed 911 deaths over 15-year period

Nova Scotia has examined all deaths of people under the age of 25 not caused by natural factors.

The first report examining the cause of deaths of Nova Scotians under the age of 25 was released Friday morning.

The Child Death Review Committee (CDRC) examined 911 deaths of Nova Scotians under 25 between 2009 and 2023. The committee looked for patterns in cases such as sudden infant death, suicide and motor vehicle crashes.

The death investigation process examines information from the scene of the death, the medical and social history of the individual, and autopsy records.

According to their mandate, the CDRC report does not include some deaths over the 15-year period that were determined to be by natural causes or diseases like cancer, but included all accidental, homicidal and suicidal deaths.

“Until now, the Medical Examiner Service has focused on the investigation of deaths. Because of the death review committee, we can now make recommendations that will save lives in the future,” said Dr. Matthew Bowes, chief medical examiner and committee co-chair.

On average, the CDRC reviewed more than 60 deaths per year where victims were under 25 years old.

Key recommendations include:

• sharing data and findings with the public and support services
• strengthening road safety, including ATV use
• creating water safety programs for newcomers
• expanding collaboration on suicide and homicide prevention among high-risk groups

Formed in 2021, the committee’s mandate is to analyze deaths, spot trends and recommend ways to prevent future tragedies.

“While deaths among children, youth and young adults are uncommon, many of these are preventable,” said Dr. Robert Strang, chief medical officer of health and committee co-chair.

“This report is about turning evidence into action across government and in communities, to help keep young Nova Scotians safer.”

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