Leading Causes of Death

Among U.S. college students, the two leading causes of death are auto accidents and suicide, in that order. Dr. Vincent D’ Andrea—a Stanford University psychiatrist who has organized suicide hotlines, peer counselors and dormitory advisers to prevent suicides—says 15 out of every 100,000 students do away with themselves each year. About one in 10 suicide attempts succeeds. Though 90% of all attempts are made by women aged 20-30, those who succeed are usually men.

Parade Magazine, Oct. 23, 1983