Nearly 380 drowning deaths recorded annually in Greece
Greece records an average of 378 drowning deaths each year, with older adults accounting for the vast majority of victims, according to data cited by the Hellenic National Public Health Organisation (EODY).
Over the past five years, an average of 378 fatal accidents have occurred annually in marine and inland waters, with 99% of cases, or 373 deaths, taking place at sea, according to the Safe Water Sports Accident Observatory.
Men accounted for 67% of drowning victims, while people aged over 60 represented 81% of all fatalities, underscoring the need for targeted prevention measures for older adults.
Drowning remains a major global health risk
EODY said swimming offers significant health benefits, including improved cardiovascular and respiratory health, reduced stress and better sleep, but stressed that drowning can occur within 20 to 60 seconds, making awareness and adherence to water safety rules essential.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), drowning is the third leading cause of death from unintentional injury worldwide, accounting for about 7% of all injury-related deaths. Around 300,000 people die from drowning each year, with children under five facing the highest mortality rates, followed by adults aged 70 and over.
The WHO estimates Greece's drowning rate at 3.6 deaths per 100,000 people, according to its first Global Status Report on Drowning Prevention, to which EODY contributed.
Source:AMNA
