02-August-2024-Special-Article

WORLD DROWNING PREVENTION DAY: ADDRESSING A GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH CHALLENGE

World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on July 25th, is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and promoting action to prevent drowning incidents.

Drowning is a significant public health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries, and has resulted in over 2.5 million deaths in the last decade.

This day, coordinated by the World Health Organization (WHO), serves as a reminder of the urgency to implement effective water safety measures.

About Drowning

• Definition by WHO: Drowning is defined as respiratory impairment caused by submersion or immersion in liquid, which can lead to death, injury, or survival without any injury.
• Global Concern: Drowning is a leading cause of injury-related deaths worldwide, particularly in regions with inadequate water safety practices.

World Drowning Prevention Day

• Significance: The day is dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives to drowning and to promoting water safety awareness globally.
• Establishment: The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) established this day through a resolution in April 2021, and it is now observed annually under the coordination of WHO.
• 2024 Theme: “Anyone can drown, no one should,” highlighting the universal risk of drowning and the importance of preventive measures.
• WHO Slogan: “Seconds can save a life,” emphasizing the critical role of quick action in preventing drowning fatalities.

Factors Contributing to Drowning Incidents in India

Proximity to Water Bodies: Many communities in India live near rivers, ponds, and wells, using them for daily activities without adequate safety measures or supervision, particularly for children.

• Accidental Falls: In 2022, 28,257 deaths were due to accidental falls into water bodies.
• Other Cases: Unclassified drowning incidents and boat capsizes accounted for 9,962 and 284 deaths, respectively.

Flooding: Monsoon rains often cause severe flooding, exacerbated by poor drainage systems, increasing the risk of drowning in affected communities.

Cultural Attitudes: Some communities accept drowning as an inevitable risk, which hampers efforts to promote water safety.

Economic Limitations: Poverty restricts access to safety equipment, swimming lessons, and emergency services, particularly in low-income areas.

Lack of Safety Regulations: Insufficient enforcement of safety measures around public water bodies, such as lifeguard deployment, leads to higher drowning rates.

Global and National Drowning Statistics

Worldwide Data: According to the WHO, drowning claims approximately 372,000 lives annually, making it a major but often overlooked public health threat.

• Regional Disparities: Over 90% of drowning deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, with the WHO Western Pacific and South-East Asia regions being the most affected.
• Mortality Rates: In the Western Pacific Region, drowning death rates are significantly higher compared to developed countries like the UK and Germany.

India-Specific Data:

• Annual Deaths: Approximately 38,000 people drown in India each year.
• Significance: Drowning accounts for 9.1% of all accidental deaths in India, with 38,503 fatalities reported in 2022.
• State-wise Data: Madhya Pradesh (5,427), Maharashtra (4,728), and Uttar Pradesh (3,007) recorded the highest drowning deaths, indicating the widespread nature of the issue across the country.
• Gender and Age: Children aged 1-14 are particularly vulnerable, with drowning being a leading cause of death in this age group.

Role of WHO in Drowning Prevention

• Global Recognition: WHO has identified drowning as a critical public health issue, particularly in its 2014 Global Report on Drowning Prevention.
• Resolution WHA76.18: This resolution calls for coordinated multi-sectoral actions to reduce drowning incidents worldwide.

Preventive Measures for Drowning

• Installation of Barriers: Physical barriers around water bodies like pools, wells, and ponds can prevent access, especially for young children.
• Safe Zones Away from Water: Designating areas away from water bodies for safe activities helps minimize the risk of accidental drowning.
• Rescue Training: Educating communities in rescue techniques, such as CPR, can save lives during drowning incidents.
• Water Safety Education: Integrating water safety lessons into school curriculums ensures that children learn preventive measures early.
• Boating Safety Regulations: Strict enforcement of regulations, including mandatory life jacket use and regular vessel maintenance, is essential to prevent water-related accidents.
• Flood Risk Management: Investing in flood-resistant infrastructure and early warning systems can reduce the risk of drowning during flood events.

Conclusion

Drowning is a preventable tragedy that requires immediate attention in India. By understanding the factors contributing to drowning and implementing targeted interventions, the number of fatalities can be significantly reduced.

Collaborative efforts involving government bodies, NGOs, and local communities are crucial to creating a safer environment, especially for vulnerable populations like children.

Addressing drowning as a public health issue demands a comprehensive and sustained approach, ensuring that no life is lost to this preventable cause.

Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the factors contributing to the high incidence of drowning in India and suggest effective preventive measures to address this public health challenge. (150 WORDS)