The burden of injuries in Zambia: A call to research and action

Injury. 2023 Feb;54(2):274-279. doi: 10.1016/j.injury.2022.12.022. Epub 2022 Dec 21.

Abstract

Injuries are predicted to become a greater cause of mortality than communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030, signaling a public health dilemma for governments and citizens in each country. This article uses epidemiological estimates of injuries in Zambia, considers the socio-economic impact of injuries, examines current policies for prevention, and provides a rapid situation analysis to help develop an action and research agenda for injury prevention in the country. It calls for better epidemiological data, capacity building for human resources, and adoption of evidence-based targets and interventions. For Zambia to reduce its burden of injuries, funding for research and training should be integral to the future of its national health agenda.

Keywords: Injuries; Low- and middle-income countries; Trauma; Zambia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Africa South of the Sahara
  • Humans
  • Public Health*
  • Zambia / epidemiology