Injury and violence is a serious and widespread problem in Oklahoma, resulting in over 4,300 deaths every year, making it THE leading cause of death for Oklahomans aged 1 to 44 years. Injuries account for more years of potential life lost before the age of 65 (premature death) than heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke, respiratory illnesses and HIV combined, and total over $35 billion in medical, work loss, and loss of life costs annually. Injury deaths are just the tip of the iceberg. There are over 21,000 nonfatal inpatient hospitalizations and more than 370,000 nonfatal emergency department discharges every year due to injuries and violence, resulting in nearly $3.5 billion in hospital charges.

Prevention matters! Experiencing injury or violence can have a lifelong impact. Ranging from short-term effects, such as missing work or school, to long-term consequences, such as disabilities or permanent changes in physical and mental health, the impacts of injury and violence are varied and far reaching. However, a wide range of prevention strategies have been proven to work and be cost effective. By implementing an array of interventions, addressing disparities, and working in collaboration, together, we can reduce the significant burden of injuries and violence.