A new County report shows how children and teens are doing across the region which can help identify where support, preventions strategies and resources are needed most.
The findings are also available in an interactive dashboard that breaks down key health, social and community factors affecting youth 0 to 17 years old.
“This information gives us a comprehensive view of how our children and teens are doing, not just medically but socially and emotionally,” said Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan, M.D., M.P.H., County Public Health Officer.
He said that the data helps the County and community partners advance health equity, so every young person has a chance to reach their full potential.
Demographics and social factors
Children and teens made up just over one fifth of the county’s population in 2023. Nearly half were Hispanic, followed by non-Hispanic white, Asian and Pacific Islander, other races and Black residents. About 12 percent lived in households below the federal poverty level.
The report showed that children’s opportunities, such as access to education, safety and economic stability, varied by neighborhood. Southeastern San Diego and Mid-City neighborhoods had some of the lowest access to resources, while Kearny Mesa, Miramar and Del Mar offered the highest.
What the data shows about health
The leading causes of infant death in 2023 were congenital conditions, pregnancy-related complications, low birth weight and sudden infant death syndrome.
Among children and teens ages 1 to 17, the leading causes of death in 2023 were accidental injuries, cancer and suicide.
Injuries continue to be a major cause of emergency visits and hospitalizations, including motor vehicle injuries and traumatic brain injuries from falls.
Between 2022 and 2024, about one in four teens reported likely experiencing serious psychological distress.
Behavioral health concerns, including suicide attempts or self-harm, anxiety and alcohol use, were the most common reasons for ER care and hospitalizations.
Asthma continued to drive the highest rates of both emergency visits and hospital stays.
COVID19, flu and pneumonia led infectious-disease-related emergency visits.
Immunization trends
More than 92 percent of kindergarten students had all required immunizations, a decline from 96.5% 10 years earlier. This reflects national trends and increases the risk of diseases like measles. While recent changes in national vaccine messaging have led to confusion, parents are encouraged to talk with their child’s healthcare provider to make informed decisions and keep their families and community safe.
