Holmdahl L, Ortenwall P
Department of Surgery, Ostra Hospital, University of Göteborg, Sweden.
Eur J Surg. 1997 Feb;163(2):83-92.
To document the occurrence, causes, severity and consequences of accidental injuries over a time period May 1989-May 1992.
Prospective study.
County of Alingsås, Sweden.
33,000 inhabitants.
Incidence, age, sex, activity preceding accident, mechanism of trauma, type of injury and injury severity score (ISS).
The yearly incidence was 14.7% (n = 4,867), and a third of them occurred within the home. The largest percentage (36%) happened during spare time activities, followed by sports (18%), and on the road (11%). Only 34 (0.7%) were severe injuries (ISS > 12). Most injuries (67%) occurred in people below the age of 40. The risk of getting injured was the same for elderly (> 75) as for young people, and 9% of all those who were injured were admitted to hospital.
Injuries were a common reason for seeking medical attention, but only 1 in 10 needed admission to hospital. Most injuries occurred at home during spare time activities. Serious injuries were rare.
