Accidents among adults in Germany – Results from the accident module of the Panel ‘Health in Germany’ 2024

Abstract

Background: Accidents cause human suffering, high costs and are a significant cause of death. In 2024, 34,060 people died in accidents in Germany. Data on non-fatal accidents is provided by the Panel ‘Health in Germany’ 2024 conducted by the Robert Koch Institute. Methods: In the accident module of the study, 26,923 people aged 18 and over provided information about accident-related injuries in the last twelve months that required medical treatment. Detailed information was recorded about the last accident. Accident prevalence (95 % CI) and other results on accidents (proportions with 95 % CI) were calculated. Results: Overall, 9.5 % of women and 10.5 % of men report at least one accidental injury. The difference is significant. The majority of accidents occurred at home (36.0 %), followed by traffic, leisure and work. Accidents occur significantly more often at home and less often at work for women than for men. There are differences in workplace accidents among men depending on their level of education. The most common cause of accidents is falls (30.4 %). Significantly more accidents involving falls occur among women than among men. Almost one in five accident victims was treated as an inpatient in hospital (18.7 %). Conclusions: The results highlight the social relevance of accidental injuries. Initial analyses of the accident module identify key accident locations and affected groups. Further evaluations will reveal prevention potential in greater detail.