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Injury is the leading cause of death among children and adults up to age 44 and is the leading cause of potential life lost before age 65. In 2005, more than 170,000 Americans of all ages died from injuries from motor vehicle crashes, suicide, falls, poisoning, drug overdoses, drownings, fires and other causes. Because of its impact on the health of all Americans--young and old--preventing injury is a serious public health challenge. State strategies to prevent injuries and save lives include increasing use of safety belts and enforceing laws on drinking and driving and speeding. Other promising policies and new initiatives target prescription drug overdoses and teen driving fatalities.
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