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Wilderness injuries and illnesses.
D A Gentile1, J A Morris, T Schimelpfenig
1Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Wilderness recreation poses risks, with injuries like sprains and strains being common. Focusing on wilderness hygiene and managing musculoskeletal injuries can improve safety for outdoor activities.
Area of Science:
- Wilderness Medicine
- Outdoor Recreation Safety
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Wilderness recreation is increasingly popular, necessitating an understanding of associated health risks.
- Data on injury and illness patterns in wilderness settings are crucial for developing effective safety protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the patterns and occurrence rates of injuries and illnesses during wilderness recreation.
- To inform medical strategies for wilderness environments.
Main Methods:
- A prospective injury and illness surveillance study was conducted.
- Data were collected over five years from students and instructors participating in National Outdoor Leadership School courses across the Western Hemisphere.
Main Results:
- The fatality rate was 0.28 per 100,000 person-days. Injury rates were 2.3 per 1,000 person-days, with sprains, strains, and soft tissue injuries comprising 80%.
- Illness rates were 1.5 per 1,000 person-days, primarily nonspecific viral illnesses and diarrhea, influenced by hygiene.
- Evacuation was required for 39% of injuries and illnesses.
Conclusions:
- Wilderness medical efforts should prioritize hygiene and the management of musculoskeletal and soft tissue injuries.
- While generally safe, wilderness activities require individual risk assessment, balancing potential benefits against inherent risks.