UCRH researcher Mohammad Hamiduzzaman is one of a worldwide team of more than 400 health experts who have studied the impact of injuries on global health and health systems.
Their study, recently published in the journal Public Health, has revealed the staggering impact of unintentional injuries (for example falls), transport-related injuries, and those caused by self-harm and violence.
In 2019 alone there were over 713.9 million incidents and 4.3 million deaths. The research highlights that injuries account for almost one-tenth of the total global burden of diseases. Unintentional injuries were found to contribute the most to the global burden, particularly affecting men.
They found that key risk factors for injury-related deaths include low bone mineral density, occupational hazards, and alcohol use. Low- and middle-income countries suffer the most, with 88% of the injury burden. The study suggests that improving surgical care in these regions could prevent 21% of this burden, potentially saving millions of lives and adding significant economic benefits.
The researchers emphasise that effective global injury prevention requires robust data and sound policies. They call for enhanced safety measures, prevention programs, and better access to trauma care to address this pressing public health issue.
