Injury to Maori. II: Serious injury.

AIMS

To determine the significance of serious injury in Maori relative to other health problems, to describe the leading causes, and to determine age specific rates for major classes of injury.

METHOD

We used New Zealand Health Information Services' public hospital inpatient data files. The New Zealand Census classification of 'Sole-Maori' was used to determine injury mortality rates.

RESULTS

On average, one in every eight admissions in Maori, was for injury. Injury was the leading reason for admission for those 5-44 years old. Unintentional injury accounted for 85% of injuries, with those ages 1-14 and 15-24 years having the highest numbers and rates. Falls, followed closely by motor vehicle traffic crashes, were the leading causes, accounting for 23% and 20% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In order to address the priorities identified here, appropriate partnerships between crown agencies and social agencies, both Iwi and/or community based, must be established.