Injury prevention

Injury prevention is a key part of Trauma Services at The Ottawa Hospital. 

Preventable injury is the leading cause of death for Canadians aged one to 44 (Source: Parachute, 2015, The Cost of Injury in Canada).  Most injuries are not accidents—they are predictable and preventable. 

By working with communities and health partners across Ontario and Canada, we aim to reduce the number and severity of injuries.

The main causes of injury in Ontario include

  • Falls
  • Transport incidents
  • Self-harm

The cost of injuries

According to the Cost of Injury in Canada report released June 2015, the cost of injuries in Ontario is rising.

2004

13,000 deaths 
$19.7B cost

2010

15,866 deaths 
$26.8B cost

2035 (predicted)

26,390 deaths
$75B cost

Preventing injuries

We can help prevent injuries by:

  • Building healthy public policy.
  • Developing personal skills.
  • Creating supportive environments.
  • Reorienting health services.
  • Strengthening community action.