Traumatic injuries: epidemiological features and risk awareness

ABSTRACT

To scrutinize the individuals' and environmental factors behind traumatic eye injuries and to find-out individual's awareness of risks in different life activities; 173 eye-injured patients were included. They were subjected to a pre-designed performa to collect data concerning demographic characteristics, type and cause of injury in addition to the place or setting in which it was sustained. It included also data concerning awareness of the potential risk of injury due to the different life activities. The study revealed that all age groups were affected with a maximum frequency at the age group 25 - < 60 years. Illiterate and low educated individuals were more frequent among patients. Contrary to what might be expected; a great proportion of traumatic eye injuries occurred at home, leisure and sports facilities. Urban residence was more potentially hazardous due to multiplicity of activities pursued by residents. The unawareness of the potential hazards to which individuals might be exposed during the different life activities was a factor behind reluctance of using protective appliances where their use was indicated. Illiteracy and low educational level were barriers hindering perception and appreciation of the potential risks, The study recommended; inclusion of safety education within the school curricula at all levels, health education programs dealing with the potential health hazards to be propagated through mass media and special health education programs for those involved in recreational and sports activities. The study recommended also that the use of protective devices should be always inforced