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Risk of catastrophic injury in sports and recreation

Many factors have contributed to the increasing risk of sustaining a catastrophic injury in sports and recreation that has occurred in most countries. Greater involvement in high-risk activities, more aggressive play and advanced technology have increased the speed and force of collisions in team sports such as hockey and football, and in individual recreational activities such as snowmobiling or driving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV). There is also more public attention and greater participation in extreme manoeuvres in risky activities such as snowboarding, BMX and mountain bicycling, and paragliding. Thrill seekers are stimulated to attempt stunts and actions for which they are often untrained and unskilled. In some high-risk activities, alcohol, drugs and superficial media portrayal overcome or cloud the normal instinct towards risk aversion and self-protection. Unfortunately, catastrophic injuries are very costly in terms of grief, disappointment and financial burden for the participants, families and societies. The purpose of this article is to describe the problem of increased participation in an increasing array of risky sports and recreation activities and to offer some strategies for reducing the risk of catastrophic injury. Further research is required to identify and mitigate risk. It is also important for individuals and for societies to develop and propagate effective injury prevention strategies.