Archives of Hellenic Medicine

Last update:

15-Nov-2008

Arch Hellen Med, 2008, 25(Supplement 1):46-51

REVIEW

Message 7: “Play sports safely”

G. LAVRANOS¹, N. SKENDERIS², V. KALAMPOKI¹, G. MASANOTTI³, E.Th. PETRIDOU¹
¹Center for Research and Prevention of Injuries (CEREPRI), Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Athens University Medical School
²Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Thessalia
³Department of Medical-Surgery Speciality and Public Health, University of Perugia

Sports constitute a major part of everyday activities, especially in younger individuals. Since sport injuries account for about 20% of all home and leisure injuries and can lead to substantial morbidity and disability, the existence of adequate epidemiological information is essential for the development of sound preventive strategies among the countries of the European Union (EU). This paper aims: (a) to describe the magnitude and the socio-economic burden of sport injuries in the countries of the EU, (b) to outline underlying risk factors and (c) to present evidence based preventive practices that reduce the likelihood of sports injury occurrence. This information has been used in the development of messages comprising the European Code Against Injuries (ECAI).

Key words: European Code Against Injuries, Prevention, Sports.