WHO fact sheet on drowning with key facts and information on the scope of the problem, who is at risk, prevention and WHO response.
Drowning is one of the leading causes of death from unintentional injuries worldwide and has a significant impact in the Region of the Americas. Each year, thousands of people lose their lives in rivers, lakes, seas, swimming pools, and wells. It disproportionately affects children, young people, older adults, and rural communities. Drownings occur in a wide range of contexts, including ...
Drowning is a serious and neglected public health threat claiming the lives of 372 000 people a year worldwide. More than 90% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. This death toll is almost two thirds that of malnutrition and well over half that of malaria – but unlike these public health challenges, there are no broad prevention efforts that target drowning.
World Drowning Prevention Day 2024: Everyone can be a lifesaver World Drowning Prevention Day carries a clear message: basic awareness and swift actions prevent drowning. Saving a life from drowning begins with knowledge of and respect for water. It is about transforming fear into preparedness and lack of awareness into preventative action.
World Drowning Prevention Day, declared in April 2021 by United Nations General Assembly resolution A/RES/75/273, is held annually on 25 July. Through this global event, we remember lives lost due to drowning and aim to increase knowledge on safety in and around water.
Drowning has claimed over 3 million lives in the past decade - mostly children and youth - demanding urgent action now. This #WorldDrowningPrevention Day, we’re sharing powerful stories about changemakers from around the world who are helping to save lives and prevent lifelong disabilities caused by drowning. From teaching communities about water safety to developing national drowning ...