Date of Award

2026

Type

Thesis

Major

Health Science

Degree Type

Master of Public Health

Department

Kinesiology and Health Sciences

First Advisor

Dr. Patricia Anafi

Second Advisor

Dr. Rebecca Toland

Third Advisor

Dr. Natasha Hourel

Abstract

Unintentional injuries are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children and adolescents in the United States. These injuries result from various causes, including motor vehicle crashes, falls, suffocation, and poisoning. This capstone project examines the prevalence, risk factors, and prevention strategies for unintentional injuries among infants, children, and adolescents. Using a public health approach, this research explores evidence-based interventions and community-based programs that effectively reduce injury-related mortality. The project also incorporates data and insights from the Safe Kids Columbus program at Piedmont Columbus Regional, where various injury prevention initiatives have been implemented.

Findings revealed that motor vehicle crashes disproportionately affect adolescents due to inexperience and inconsistent restraint use, while falls represent the most common nonfatal injury in younger children. Drowning poses the highest risk for toddlers, with racial disparities significantly affecting Black children. Poisoning and opioid overdoses have surged among adolescents, driven by prescription drug access and fentanyl contamination. Despite progress from “Back to Sleep” campaigns, SIDS persists, particularly among Black and Indigenous infants. Across all categories, social determinants of health, including poverty, education, housing, and systemic inequities—were identified as central drivers of injury risk. Prevention strategies were shown to be most effective when proactive, community-based, and culturally tailored. Local programs such as Safe Kids Columbus exemplify these principles, highlighting the importance of sustainable funding, interagency collaboration, and equity-focused approaches.

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