Unintentional injuries: burden and risk factors in rural areas of Puducherry

Background: Unintentional injuries are recognised as major public health problem globally. Currently, majority of injury data are obtained from hospital records, which have limited value as many injuries in the community are never reported. Objectives: To assess the burden, nature and risk factors of unintentional injuries in a rural population. Methods: In a descriptive study from two rural areas of Puducherry, injury details were collected for 1900 individuals, selected by random sampling technique. The data was summarised into proportions. Chi-square for statistical significance and odds ratio for strength of association were calculated. Results: Overall 106 injuries (5.6%, 95% CI 4.4%-6.6%) were reported in three months recall period. Injuries were more among adults (71%) aged 15-59 years followed by children (21%). Injuries were more among skilled workers (24.7%, OR 4.28) and illiterates (19.45%, OR 13.61). 'Fire' (25.5%), 'Falls' (20.8%) and 'Road Traffic Injuries' (15.1%) were common mechanisms of injuries. Open wounds (37.8%), burns (25.5%) and fractures (16.9%) were the common types of injuries. Majority of injuries had occurred at home (44.7%) and during forenoon (51.9%). 77.4% subjects utilised health services for treatment. Conclusion: The study has provided information on different patterns of injuries and risk groups in the community, which can be used as a further step towards prevention strategies at local level.