Childhood accidents: An emerging concern

ABSTRACT

The study of childhood and injury prevention is emerging as a legitimat field of clinical practice and research in pediatrics and community health. In the Philippines, accidents rank sixth both in terms of morbidity and mortality. Children and adolescents comprise a sizeable number of cases, accounting for about 40% of the total number of accidents. In terms of serious disability, medical costs and morbidity, the total impact of childhood injuries is enormous. An accident is defined by the World Health Organization as an event which is independent of human will power, caused by an external force, acts rapidly and results in bodily or mental damage. Haddon defines injury as a damage by a transfer of energy from a hazardous agent to a susceptible host in a conducive environment. The leading causes of injuries in the Philippines are traffic accidents, drowning, falls, burns and poisoning. Most injuries occur at home and in school. The interactive model of agent-host-environment can be adopted for understanding childhood injuries. A developmental approach that emphasizes that children have different cognitive, perceptual, motor, and language competencies can provide a better understanding of the child's contributions to the occurence of injuries. A good injury prevention program depends on significant researches on accident and injury prevention. Clinical, epidemiological, and biotechnical research can provide a basis for rational prevention of accidents. Educational packages for injury should be prepared by medical schools, hospitals, and health organizations. Pediatricians must advocate for legislation and enforcement of laws on injury prevention, cost efficient preventive measures, good accident data collection. The creation of national, regional, and local safety committees will accelerate a national injury prevention program.