Multicentre Study of Acute Alcohol use and Non-Fatal Injuries: Data from the WHO Collaborative Study on Alcohol and Injuries

Data were collected from patients, aged 18+, in 2001-2002 by the WHO collaborative study on alcohol & injuries from 10 emergency departments around the world. A case-crossover method was used to compare the used of alcohol during the 6 hours prior to the injury with the use of alcohol during same day of the week in the previous week. Participants who had sustained intentional injuries were at a higher risk than participants who had sustained unintentional injuries. It is recommended that comprehensive strategies for reducing harm should be implemented for all drinkers seen in emergency departments. (52 refs.)