Exposure rate of children to environmental violence in the Thamar University Hospital area in Yemen

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Background: Children in Yemen face significant risks of environmental violence due to socio-political instability and lack of resources. This study evaluates the incidence, types, and risk factors of environmental violence-related injuries among children in the Al-Wahdah Teaching Hospital, Yemen. Methods: Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 151 children under 18 years was conducted. Data collection included structured questionnaires addressing demographics, injury types, injury sites, and associated risk factors. Data were collected over six months (January–June 2023) from 151 children under 18 years presenting to Al-Wahdah Teaching Hospital, Thamar University, Yemen. Sociodemographic, injury-related, and socioeconomic variables were analyzed using SPSS. Results: Most children were male (77.5%) with a predominant age range of 10–14 years (34.4%). Road traffic accidents (38.4%) were the leading injury cause, particularly among older children, followed by falls (28.5%) and burns (6%). Injuries predominantly occurred on public roads (52.3%), with urban areas (49.7%) and low-income households (68.2%) disproportionately affected. Most parents lacked formal education (54.3%), underscoring socioeconomic vulnerabilities. Significant associations were found between injury type and socio-economic factors (p < 0.001). Also, Statistical significance (p<0.05) highlighted associations between injury types, age groups, and environmental factors.

Conclusion: Environmental violence significantly impacts children, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Road safety, urban planning, and poverty alleviation emerge as critical intervention targets to reduce the Environmental violence that significantly impacts children These findings advocate for child-sensitive public health strategies in conflict settings and prioritization of environmental safety in humanitarian and policy responses to mitigate preventable injuries and their long-term physical consequences.

Keywords: Environmental violence, child injuries, conflict zones, road traffic accidents, Yemen