10 facts on injuries and violence

12 March 2008

WHO/P. Virot

With more than 5 million deaths every year, violence and injuries account for 9% of global mortality, as many deaths as from HIV, malaria and tuberculosis combined. Eight of the 15 leading causes of death for people ages 15 to 29 years are injury-related: road traffic injuries, suicides, homicides, drownings, burns, war injuries, poisonings and falls.

Worldwide, governments and public and private partners are increasingly aware of the strains that violence and injuries place on societies. In response they are strengthening data collection systems, improving services for victims and survivors, and increasing prevention efforts.

WHO is drawing attention to the devastating effects of violence and injuries and supporting country-level efforts to develop prevention approaches that focus on addressing root causes. WHO encourages the use of reliable data to help determine priorities and evaluate the effectiveness of strategies employed.

This fact file describes some of the devastating effects of injuries and violence around the world and prevention methods that can lessen suffering and save lives.

Read more about injuries and violence

Related links

• WHO programme on violence and injury prevention