World Trauma Day 17 October 2023 - History, Importance and Preventive measures

History of World Trauma Day (WTD)

The first annual World Trauma Day was established in 2011 in New Delhi, India. Since an estimated over 400 people were killed every day in traffic-related incidents across the country. The day was established to lessen the number of casualties and long-term effects of trauma incidents across the globe. 

Importance of World Trauma Day (WTD)

Traumatic injuries are a major cause of both morbidity and mortality, and their prevalence is rising rapidly. World Trauma Day was created to raise public awareness of the need to take preventative measures to lessen the number of casualties and injuries that can be caused by accidents.

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 50 lakh people die each year as a direct result of injury. This equates to one death every six seconds and 9 percent of all deaths worldwide
• Annually, it is estimated that 10 lakh people in India will die due to injuries, and another 2 crore will be admitted to hospitals.

In general, trauma is defined as a physical injury caused to the body through different sources such as burns, falls, road accidents, domestic abuse, natural disasters etc. Road accidents are the leading cause of trauma across the world. 

Facts about road traffic injuries

• Road traffic accidents are the leading cause of death among young people worldwide, and the leading cause of death among those aged 15-29 years.
• Globally, road traffic injuries are currently the eighth leading cause of death across all age groups and are expected to rise to the seventh leading cause of death by 2030.
• Road traffic accidents are increasing at a 3% annual rate.
• Middle and low-income countries, such as India, account for 90% of all road traffic deaths.
• According to a World Bank report, India accounts for 11% of global road death, with 53 road crashes occurring every hour.
• In the last decade, 13 lakh people died and 50 lakhs were injured in India.

Road deaths and injuries are preventable, if every one of us can contribute the following factors mentioned below.

Factors to consider to avoid injuries

For the common public:

• The road safety rules should be strictly followed.
• While driving, pay close attention to the warning signs and traffic signals.
• Wearing a helmet while riding a two-wheeler is mandatory.
• While on the road, avoid distractions like mobile phones and loud music
• Taking a short break is recommended, in the event of extended and continuous driving.
• Have practice of keeping a first aid safety kit at home and in vehicle.
• Learn basic life support techniques and help the injured in the time of the Golden Hour.
• Should not be driving if the driver feels tired, drunk or sleepy.
• Don’t wait for the eleventh hour, start early.
• All vehicles should be well maintained with good breaks, lighting, tyres, etc.to reduce accidents.
• Older vehicles and highly polluting vehicles should be phased out.
• Vehicles should be provided with seat belts and other necessary safety provisions (like airbags).

For an organisation:

• Roads should be kept well maintained with frequent resurfacing of road surfaces and marking of road safety signs.
• Pedestrian walkways and cross walks at intersections should be provided.
• For slow-moving and fast-moving vehicles, separate lanes should be provided.
• For safety reasons, roads and junctions need to be spacious and well-lit.
  

Department of Emergency and Trauma Care