Approximately 500,000 children are injured in Greece every year, resulting in the deaths of 700 children and the incapacitation of 3,000, according to figures released on Wednesday by Athens-based organization Pediatric Trauma Care.
According to a review of data from the the Hellenic Statistical Service, the trauma care organization said car accidents, falls, burns, drowning, electrocution and poisoning are the principal causes of injuries to children. Delayed response times, as well as shortages in infrastructure and equipment, are contributing factors to the mortality rates.
The trauma care report stated that “The amount of time elapsed between injury and stabilization of the child’s condition needs to be kept at a minimum, so that the child does not succumb to its injuries.” This period of time directly after injuries, called “the golden hour”, is crucial for the improvement of survival rates.
The Pediatric Trauma Care organization was created in order to address issues of inadequate infrastructure and information. It aims to protect every injured child’s right to have access to appropriate medical and hospital care.
The organization has helped provide new equipment for pediatric wards in several hospitals throughout Greece and has organized seminars for doctors, nurses, educators, parents and children.
Source: AMNA
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