Falls from stairs and steps are one of the leading causes of accidental deaths in the United States. According to the National Safety Council, the lifetime odds of dying from a fall from stairs and steps in the US are 1 in 1,523. This means that for every 1,523 people, one is expected to die from a fall from stairs and steps.
The number of deaths from falls from stairs and steps has remained relatively constant over the past decade. In 2021, there were 2,771 deaths from falls from stairs and steps, with a one-year odds of dying of 1 in 119,823. In 2020, there were 2,674 deaths with a one-year odds of dying of 1 in 123,365. In 2019, there were 2,530 deaths with a one-year odds of dying of 1 in 129,739.
The risk of falling from stairs and steps is particularly high for older adults. As people age, their risk of falling increases due to changes in balance, strength, and mobility. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one out of four older adults falls each year, and falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older Americans. It's important to take steps to prevent falls from stairs and steps, such as installing handrails and keeping stairs and steps free of clutter.
There are also many other risk factors that can increase the likelihood of falling from stairs and steps. These include poor lighting, loose or damaged stairs, and wearing shoes with poor traction. Individuals who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol are also at increased risk of falling.
If you or someone you know has suffered a fall from stairs and steps, it's important to seek medical attention right away. Falls can cause serious injuries, such as broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Prompt medical attention can help prevent further damage and ensure the best possible outcome.
In conclusion, falls from stairs and steps are a serious and preventable cause of accidental death in the United States. By taking steps to prevent falls and seeking prompt medical attention when falls do occur, we can help reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by falls from stairs and steps.
Year | Deaths | one-year odds |
---|---|---|
2021 | 2,771 | 1 in 119,823 |
2020 | 2,674 | 1 in 123,365 |
2019 | 2,530 | 1 in 129,739 |
2018 | 2,524 | 1 in 129,433 |
2017 | 2,506 | 1 in 129,684 |
2016 | 2,353 | 1 in 137,246 |
2015 | 2,348 | 1 in 136,558 |
2014 | 2,292 | 1 in 138,874 |
2013 | 2,246 | 1 in 140,690 |
2012 | 2,132 | 1 in 147,199 |
2011 | 2,108 | 1 in 147,798 |
2010 | 1,995 | 1 in 155,047 |
2009 | 1,967 | 1 in 155,958 |
2008 | 1,941 | 1 in 156,666 |
2007 | 1,921 | 1 in 156,808 |
2006 | 1,825 | 1 in 163,495 |
2005 | 1,697 | 1 in 174,142 |
2004 | 1,645 | 1 in 178,000 |
2003 | 1,591 | 1 in 182,344 |