ASSAULT-RELATED INJURY AND MORTALITY IN THAILAND: A FIVE-YEAR SITUATION REVIEW (2015–2019)

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of assault-related injuries and fatalities in Thailand from 2015 to 2019 using data from the National Injury Surveillance (IS) database. Interpersonal violence—particularly assault—remains a critical public health concern, with significant physical, psychological, and social implications. This research aims to update national data (ICD-10 codes X85–Y09), prioritise public health responses, and support evidence-based policymaking. The study population includes individuals of all ages and sexes who sustained assault-related injuries, with data collected from 33 sentinel hospitals. The research employs a quantitative descriptive design, analysing trends in injury type, demographic characteristics, location, time of incident, bodily region affected, and alcohol involvement. Results show a 27.6% reduction in overall injuries over five years, yet highlight persistent vulnerabilities—particularly among youth aged 15–29, who accounted for nearly 70% of victims. Assaults most frequently occurred at home or nearby (48.1%), with domestic incidents rising. Head and neck were the most commonly injured regions (31.2%). Alcohol was involved in nearly half of the sharp and blunt object assaults. Assaults peaked between 4:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m., aligning with social and alcohol-related activities. While trends indicate progress, significant gaps remain in prevention, particularly regarding domestic violence and alcohol use. The report recommends short-, medium-, and long-term strategies for violence prevention and calls for future research in behavioral, genetic, and digital risk factors. Comprehensive, multisectoral collaboration remains essential to advancing public safety and health equity.