Unintentional Injuries & Why it Matters to You

SHRIYA GARG – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, unintentional injuries are the number one cause of death for people aged 1- 44 years of age. You might be wondering what exactly constitutes an unintentional injury; An unintentional injury is any outcome in which the harmful result was not sought like fatal motor vehicle accidents, drug overdoses or poisonings, and falls. As college students, we are at most risk for unintentional injuries. Keeping yourself and others aware and prepared for these risks is crucial in reducing these tragic events.

Within the large umbrella of unintentional injuries, motor vehicle crashes are the leading causes of fatal outcomes. In 2020 alone, about 2800 adolescents aged 13-19 were killed in crashes with hundreds more being injured. Although being able to drive can be liberating and a huge step towards developing an independent sense of self, safe practices are crucial when driving. Simple actions such as the use of safety belts, following speed limits, or reducing distracting practices like texting and driving can mean the difference between life and death. 

In addition, helping to reduce the amount of drunk or impaired driving is crucial in reducing motor-related fatalities since 29% of drivers between ages 15-20 who were killed had been intoxicated. Although in an ideal world the majority of drivers are aware that driving under the influence would put them in danger, that is yet to be the case. However, steps to reduce the amount of drunk drivers on the road, through awareness and education campaigns especially, can be extremely helpful for improvement. 

Between 2015 and 2019, over 3000 adolescents (ages 10-19) died of unintentional drug overdose. This worsening problem hasn’t slowed down due to the advent of new synthetic opioids and the availability of other illicit drugs. Now more than ever, it is important to keep in mind not only the devastating effects that drug use can have on the body, but also the mental, social, and emotional effects that also can result in constant use. Recognition of these effects along with the impending possibility of an overdose should help in deterring more students from becoming excessively involved in drug use and ultimately overdoses. 

Falls are the third leading cause of unintentional injuries for the younger population. Recreational activities such as playing on a playground, climbing a tree, or rock climbing can all result in possible injuries. Using the property safety protection when performing certain activities or installing proper equipment to prevent accidents are very important in curtailing these unintentional falls. Other unintentional injuries from water-related activities or lack of gun safety are also common among adolescents.

Moving forward, it is important to remain cognizant of the different risks of certain activities and to advocate for different policies to be put in place as a barrier to these unintentional injuries that plague our age group more than you might realize. Becoming a voice in our community about the dangers of certain activities and the risk these activities pose to yourself and others is just the beginning to solving this problem.

Copy Editor – Yeongseo Son

Photography Source – https://ncdip.moh.gov.jm/injuries-contribute-to-non-communicable-disease/accidental/