Global Drowning Statistics
The WHO’s first global report on drowning prevention revealed that 300,000 people died by drowning in 2021, averaging 30 deaths per hour.
92% of these deaths occurred in low- and middle-income countries, with the South-East Asia region (including India) accounting for 28% of global deaths.
Drowning deaths have declined by 38% since 2000, but progress has been uneven, with some regions (e.g., Europe) seeing more significant reductions than others (e.g., South-East Asia).
Despite the progress, the pace of change has been slow, and drowning remains a major cause of death, particularly among children.
Children at High Risk
Children under five are most affected, representing 24% of drowning deaths globally.
A significant portion of deaths also occurs in children aged 5-14 and young people aged 15-29.
Underreporting and Climate Change
The report notes that drowning deaths from natural disasters like flooding are underreported due to lack of data.
As climate change increases vulnerability to flooding, which accounts for 75% of flooding deaths, drowning prevention becomes even more urgent.
Need for Training and Education
WHO emphasizes the importance of bystander training in rescue and resuscitation, yet only 33% of countries offer such programs.
Swimming and water safety education is part of the school curriculum in just 22% of countries.
Future Projections and Prevention
If current trends continue, over 7.2 million people, mostly children, could die from drowning by 2050.
However, almost all drowning deaths are preventable with proper intervention, including preschool child care and basic swimming training for school children.
The report highlights the need for political will, investment, and inter-sectoral collaboration to tackle the complex issue of drowning.
Effective legislation and comprehensive drowning prevention strategies are crucial for reducing deaths.
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