The Top 3 Causes of Preventable Injury-Related Death
Every year, millions of people suffer from preventable injuries that can lead to death. In the United States, the top three leading causes of preventable injury-related death—poisoning, motor vehicle, and falls—account for over 86% of all preventable deaths. No other preventable cause of death—including suffocation, drowning, fire and burns, and natural or environmental disasters—accounts for more than 5% of the total.
Poisoning
Poisoning is the leading cause of preventable injury-related death in the United States, accounting for nearly 40% of all such deaths. This includes accidental poisoning from medications, household products, and other substances. It also includes intentional poisoning from drugs and alcohol. To reduce the risk of poisoning, it is important to store medications and other hazardous substances out of reach of children and to properly dispose of unused medications. It is also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of poisoning and to seek medical attention if they occur.
Motor Vehicle
Motor vehicle accidents are the second leading cause of preventable injury-related death, accounting for nearly 30% of all such deaths. To reduce the risk of motor vehicle-related injury and death, it is important to wear a seatbelt at all times, to drive sober, and to follow the rules of the road. It is also important to be aware of the signs of distracted driving, such as texting while driving, and to avoid these behaviors.
Falls
Falls are the third leading cause of preventable injury-related death, accounting for nearly 18% of all such deaths. To reduce the risk of falls, it is important to maintain a safe home environment by removing potential tripping hazards, such as rugs and cords, and by installing handrails on staircases. It is also important to be aware of the signs of dizziness and balance problems and to seek medical attention if they occur.
Conclusion
The top three leading causes of preventable injury-related death—poisoning, motor vehicle, and falls—account for over 86% of all preventable deaths. To reduce the risk of preventable injury-related death, it is important to store medications and other hazardous substances out of reach of children, to wear a seatbelt at all times, to drive sober, and to maintain a safe home environment. It is also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of poisoning, distracted driving, dizziness, and balance problems and to seek medical attention if they occur.
