المملكة: 46 thousand cases of fall accidents were recorded… and an expert told Al-Youm: a dangerous indicator

The latest statistics of the Saudi Red Crescent revealed an increase in the number of fall accidents it reported during one year, reaching 46,436 cases in various regions of the Kingdom.
The Makkah Al-Mukarramah region topped the list with about 14,700 cases, followed by the Riyadh region with 10,500 cases, then the Eastern Province with more than 5,400 cases.

Fall accidents

Fall accidents are among the common injuries that the Authority deals with, which works to update training programs to deal with them periodically and conducts awareness campaigns.
Dr. Nasr El-Din Al-Sharif, pediatric consultant, described this number as “a serious indicator calling for the need to educate community members about the dangers of falls,” noting that “falls threaten individuals’ health and quality of life, and result in fractures and complications that may reach the point of disability.”
He explained that fall accidents affect all age groups, but are more common among the elderly and children. The elderly suffer from physical and mental changes that make them more vulnerable to falling, while children engage in risky behaviors that may expose them to bone and hip fractures.

Falling on the head

He stressed the danger of falling on the head, indicating that it may cause a concussion or fractures of the skull. He also warned of fractures of the spine and spinal cord, stressing the importance of conducting the necessary tests to ensure their safety.
Dr. Al-Sharif pointed out the negative psychological and social effects of falls, especially among the elderly, as they may lead to anxiety, depression, loss of self-confidence, and social isolation. He called on family members to support the elderly, enhance their self-confidence, care for them, and pay attention to their health.
He provided a set of tips to reduce fall accidents, especially among the elderly, including: paying attention to the quality of shoes, eating healthy food, adhering to medication schedules, using walking aids, modifying some behaviors such as standing slowly, and providing a safe home environment by installing non-slip devices. In bathrooms, provide adequate lighting, and avoid clutter.

Fall accidents in Saudi Arabia

As for children, Dr. Al-Sharif stressed the need to move furniture away from windows, secure children in high chairs, swings, and strollers, close windows, create safe play areas, and monitor young children continuously.
It is noteworthy that the World Health Organization classifies falls as the second leading cause of death due to unintentional injuries in the world, claiming the lives of about 684,000 people annually.
Every year, 37.3 million fall accidents are recorded, the severity of which requires medical attention. The organization stresses the importance of adopting fall prevention strategies through education, training, and creating safer environments.