The World Health Organization (WHO) published its first-ever Global Status Report on Drowning Prevention at an event in Geneva. The report highlights the significant global burden of drowning as a public health issue.

Key Findings of the Report

• Global Drowning Deaths: In 2021, drowning caused the deaths of 300,000 people worldwide, equating to an estimated 30 deaths every hour.
• Impact on Low and Middle-Income Countries: 92% of drowning deaths occurred in low and middle-income countries, disproportionately affecting the poor and marginalized communities.
• Burden in the WHO South-East Asia Region: This region, which includes India, accounted for 83,000 deaths or 28% of the global drowning burden.
• Under Five Child Vulnerability: Children aged under five accounted for the single largest share of drowning deaths (24%), with a further 19% of deaths among children aged five to 14, and 14% among young people aged 15 to 29.
• Leading cause of Death: The report notes that globally, drowning is the fourth leading cause of death for children in the age group of one-four and the third leading cause of death for children aged five to 14.
• Economic Impact of Drowning Prevention: Investing in drowning prevention efforts would not only save lives, it could help prevent economic losses of about $4 trillion that could occur by 2050 if efforts are not taken to stem the crisis.

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About Drowning

• Definition: According to WHO, drowning is defined as respiratory impairment resulting from submersion or immersion in liquid, with outcomes categorized as death, morbidity, or no morbidity.
• Causes of Drowning: Rising sea levels, urban flooding, unsafe water transport, and risky livelihoods contribute significantly to drowning incidents.
• At-Risk Populations: Groups particularly vulnerable to drowning include children, adolescents, forcibly displaced individuals, and people living in poverty.
• World Drowning Prevention Day: The event is observed every year on 25th July to honor lives lost to drowning and promote awareness about water safety.

Actions Taken to Prevent Drowning

• Global Initiatives:
  • The Global Report on Drowning Prevention (2014) by WHO marked a significant step in highlighting the issue.
  • The UN General Assembly resolution on drowning prevention (2021) emphasized the need for international cooperation.
  • The WHO Resolution WHA76.18 underscores the importance of multi-sectoral and coordinated actions to address drowning.
• India’s Actions: India introduced the Strategic Framework for Drowning Prevention (2023).
  • It focuses on the collection of robust data to inform policies.
  • The framework promotes a multi-sectoral response, including infrastructure improvements, transport safety measures, and public awareness campaigns.

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WHO’s Recommendations for Drowning Prevention

• Strengthen public awareness about water safety and drowning risks.
• Implement infrastructure improvements to reduce hazards in high-risk areas.
• Promote safe water transport and enforce regulations to minimize risks.
• Conduct targeted interventions for vulnerable populations, such as children and marginalized groups.
• Facilitate global and regional cooperation to share best practices and resources for drowning prevention.

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