Epidemiological study about falls in Brazil: What is the path to safety?

Introduction: Falls are common and preventable injuries leading to fractures, reduced functional ability, and even mortality. Objective: To assess factors related to fall types among SAMU-assisted victims in a Brazilian metropolitan area. Method: Cross-sectional study conducted at the Emergency Medical Regulation Center, Greater Vitória Metropolitan Region, Brazil, during 2020-2021. The sample included fall victims, excluding other trauma types. Univariate statistics and chi-square tests were utilized. Approved by the Research Ethics Committee, protocol 4,308,858. Results: 10,004 falls were recorded, 6,807 from standing height (68.0%), 2,999 < 6m (30.0%), and 198 > 6m (2.0%). Falls were more prevalent in 2020 (51.3%), Saturdays (16.3%), afternoon (39.6%) and at home (74.5%). Males (55.8%) and the elderly (46.9%) were more affected. Most cases were of moderate priority (75.2%) and, handled by the BSU (90.4%). Around 77.8% were taken to healthcare facilities, 66.7% going to hospitals, mainly public ones (85.4%). The pre-hospital fatality rate was 0.7%. Factors associated with the types of fall (p<0.05): morning when falling >6m, afternoon when falling <6m, dawn when falling from standing height; residence when falling <6m, bus terminal and public road when falling from standing height; male when falling <6m and >6m, female when falling from own height; children, teenagers and adults falling <6m, babies, teenagers and adults >6m, elderly people when falling from their own height; absolute priority for falls <6m and >6m, moderate and low priority for falls from own height. ASU when falling >6m and BSU when falling from standing height; transport to health service for falls <6m and >6m; pre-hospital death for falls >6m. Conclusion: A range of epidemiological factors is linked to types of falls. Implementing basic safety precautions, at home and in public spaces, can safeguard well-being, ensure individuals′; independence, and preserve their quality of life.

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