Prioritising preventive measures for unintentional sport and recreation-related deaths in Québec, Canada, based on a...

This study analysed sport and recreation-related fatalities in Québec, Canada, from January 2006 to December 2019, focusing on the six activities with the highest mortality frequencies. It aimed to identify activity-specific risk factors to inform prevention priorities.

In this descriptive retrospective study, data extracted from the database of the Bureau du coroner du Québec were analysed. The characteristics and mechanisms of fatalities in all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, cycling, swimming, motorised navigation and non-motorised navigation activities were presented. Incidence rates were calculated using Canadian census data.

Male fatalities predominated, ranging from 83% to 91%, in the six activities. Traumatic brain injuries or cranial traumas were reported in 55.7% of land-based activities-related deaths, particularly in 70.1% of cycling fatalities. In 44.2% of cycling-related cases, victims were not wearing a helmet, while in 44.1% of cases involving all-terrain vehicles, victims either wore a helmet improperly or did not wear one at all. Cycling deaths mainly occurred on roads (82.9%), with 63.9% involving collisions with motor vehicles. Alcohol-impaired driving was observed in 29.8% of victims involved in all-terrain vehicle and snowmobile activities combined. Natural water accounted for 67.1% of swimming fatalities. Alcohol consumption was documented in 28.8% of deaths related to water-based activities. Personal flotation devices were not worn in 61.5% of navigation-related fatalities.

Activity-specific prevention priorities have been highlighted. A thorough examination of coroners' recommendations is now necessary to understand their characteristics, as this information can guide both the identification and implementation of preventive measures.