Strategic approaches for injury prevention and control in the South-East Asia Region

Injuries are a leading cause of death, hospitalization and disability in the South-East Asia (‎SEA)‎ Region. The available data indicate that nearly 1.5 million deaths, 20-30 million hospitalizations and more than 50 million emergency room registrations are due to injuries in the Region. Despite the huge increase in injuries in South-East Asia, global experiences from high-income countries reveal that injuries are predictable and preventable. A systems approach to injury prevention and control by implementing feasible and cost-effective measures through intersectoral and coordinated mechanisms can reduce the injury burden in the SEA Region. Strategic approaches for injury prevention and control along with policies and programmes form the backbone and the foundation for injury prevention and control programmes. Strong advocacy activities, better information systems through surveillance, policy formulation and programme development and capacity strengthening at different levels are crucial for implementation of interventions.