Socio-Economic and Health Impacts of Domestic Accidents in Batiaghata, Khulna, Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Domestic accidents are a neglected public health issue that can cause considerable physical, psychological and socio-economic burdens on affected individuals and families. Objectives: The objective of this study is to assess the socio-economic and health impacts of domestic accidents among the residents of Batiaghata Upazila, Khulna City of Bangladesh. Methodology: This descriptive study was conducted among 440 residents of rural community in Batiaghata Upazila, Khulna, Bangladesh. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and cross-tabulation methods. Results: Among the respondents, 355 (80.7%) reported exposure to domestic accidents. Females (84.3%) experienced a higher rate of domestic accidents compared to males (75.1%), indicating a statistically significant association between sex and accident exposure (χ² = 4.26, p < 0.05). Age was also found to be significantly related (χ² = 16.87, p < 0.01), with the highest occurrence among the 21–49 years age group (88.4%), followed by those aged 50 years and above (73.3%). A strong association was observed between socio-economic status and accident exposure (χ² = 72.94, p < 0.001), where families with lower income (< BDT 20,000) reported the highest rate of accidents (95.0%). Housekeepers (46.2%) were the most affected occupational group, followed by students (18.6%) and businessmen (11.8%); however, the relationship between occupation and the consequences of domestic accidents was not statistically significant (χ² = 14.85, p > 0.05). The severity of the consequences could not differ significantly across occupational categories. In terms of health outcomes, minor injuries were the most common (41.4%), followed by severe injuries with work loss of ≤1 week (20.7%) and >1 week (16.4%). Regarding treatment patterns, first aid was the most common response (55.7%), while 17.7% received medical treatment and 14.1% did not receive treatment. The relationship between injury severity and type of treatment was statistically significant (χ² = 39.82, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The study concluded that domestic accidents were common and closely linked with gender, income and occupation. Community awareness and home safety interventions are crucial in mitigating these preventable accidents.