April 04, 2011 Louisiana LDH Celebrates National Public Health WeekDHH Reminds Louisianians, "Safety is No Accident: Live Injury Free"

- Each year, nearly 150,000 people nationwide die from injuries, most of which occur through preventable accidents at home, while playing or on the road. Injuries are the leading cause of deaths and lifelong disabilities among people 44 and younger in Louisiana and in the United States. In recognition of National Public Health Week, April 4-10, 2011, the Louisiana Department of Health urges Louisianians to take action to prevent injuries and violence and reduce their risks. This year's theme is "Safety is No Accident: Live Injury Free," and Louisiana public health officials are raising awareness of injuries and emphasizing preventive steps residents can take.

In 2008, injuries killed 3,502 people and sent 18, 955 people to the hospital in Louisiana. Motor vehicle crashes and poisoning were the leading causes of injury-related deaths. Falls and motor vehicle crashes were the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations. "We can't afford to ignore the impact injuries have on the health of the people of our state," said Assistant Secretary for Public Health, Clayton Williams. "Many injuries are preventable. Working together we can make Louisiana a safer place to live, work and play."

Within the home, more than 11,000 people die each year from preventable unintentional injuries, including falls, burns, drowning and poisonings. "It only takes a moment for any injury to happen," said Dr. Gina Lagarde, Interim LDH Injury Research and Prevention Program Director. "And it doesn't take much time to protect against injuries and make homes safe by taking simple precautions."
Some examples of precautions include:

At Home

At Play

On the Move

Louisianans can make a real difference in their homes by committing to safer behaviors for themselves, their children and their families. For more information on injury prevention, contact the Office of Public Health's Injury Research and Prevention Program at 504-599-1080.

The Louisiana Department of Health strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state citizens. To learn more about LDH, visit http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov. For up-to-date health information, news and emergency updates, follow LDH's blog, Twitter account and Facebook page.

 

Surgeon General Ralph L. Abraham, M.D.

Interim Secretary Drew Maranto

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