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Authors: Yasir Almuzaini , Abdualziz Alahmadi , Fatimah Alshehri , Salem Albalawi , Suliman Alghnam , Suliman Bah

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Abstract

Background: Drowning is a significant global public health issue, responsible for a substantial number of injury-related fatalities each year, particularly in low- to middle-income countries. This study explored the environmental and individual risk factors of drowning and proposed a multifaceted approach to prevention. Methodology: This study used a mixed-methods approach, integrating both theoretical frameworks and data analysis to evaluate the factors contributing to drowning incidents. Data were systematically extracted from peer-reviewed articles, focusing on health outcomes. The Haddon Matrix was applied to categorize pre-, during, and post-event factors across human, equipment, and physical environments, while the combined model was used to map public health strategies to these phases, providing a structured evaluation of intervention effectiveness. Results: Factors affecting drowning include a range of personal (host) risk factors, equipment-related issues, and features of the physical environment. These factors include lack of supervision, swimming skills, alcohol use, pre-existing medical conditions, cultural norms, socioeconomic status, language barriers, gender, age, disabilities, mental health conditions, overcrowding, non-use of life jackets, and poor water visibility. The study proposes a multifaceted approach to prevention, including education, enforcement, environmental modifications, economic incentives, and emergency response, with a focus on community involvement and advanced technologies. Conclusion: This study underscores the complexity of drowning prevention and the need for a proactive and multifaceted approach. The proposed strategies, when adapted to diverse cultural and contextual factors, have the potential to significantly reduce drowning incidents, ultimately safeguarding public health and well-being.

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Keywords: Drowning, prevention, Haddon Matrix, combined model, injuries

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