Transforming the Effectiveness and Relevance of Blast Injury Research

Abstract

Blast injuries are a world-wide problem and are a serious threat to people often in the poorest countries. In 2016, almost 9,000 casualties were caused by landmines and other explosive devices but the real number is thought to be much higher. Most of these casualties (78%) were civilians, of which 42% were children [1]. Blast injuries are usually very serious, requiring many operations and long-term medical care. Research is important to improve prevention and treatments, plus help to understand the global and local picture of blast injuries. Blast injury research has received increased interest and funding in recent years. However, much of the current funding and research is focused on defence even though most victims are civilians. In times where funding is limited we must use the available resources in the best possible way. It is important that we understand what research has been done and how it can be used to improve protection and healthcare. Our vision is to make sure that blast injury research is relevant and useful so it can address the health issues caused by blast injuries and ensure that funding is spent wisely. We will bring together a range of skills and knowledge to evaluate and create an evidence-base that can be used to ensure that future blast injury research targets important areas to best improve the health and protection of those most at risk.
[1] International Campaign to Ban Landmines - Cluster Munition Coalition (ICBL-CMC). (2017) ‘Landmine Monitor 2017 - Annual Report’.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Rebecca Brown: orcid.org/0000-0001-5825-6859

ORCID for Jack Denny: orcid.org/0000-0003-3181-4747

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