Rise in teen accidents alarms health officials

By Poojathmi Rivithma

Colombo, July 02 (Daily Mirror) - Health officials have raised concerns over a recent increase in accidents involving teenagers, warning that the growing number of incidents poses a significant risk to public safety.

Consultant Community Physician Dr. Samitha Sirithunga said that approximately 10,000 people die each year as a result of accidents.

However, health officials noted that road accidents are not the only cause of injuries. Falls, drowning incidents and animal bites also account for a significant number of hospital admissions.

Meanwhile, falls account for around 25% of accident-related hospital admissions, while road accidents account for about 15%.

Dr. Sirithunga said that deaths and disabilities resulting from accidents are on the rise, particularly among teenagers aged 14 and 15.

According to health officials, these accidents not only lead to the loss of young lives and long-term disabilities but also place a significant economic burden on the country.

He further noted that approximately 8% of all reported deaths are caused by accidents, underscoring the urgent need for stronger road safety measures and greater public awareness to help prevent injuries and save lives.