Socio-Economic And Psychological Implications Of Burn Injury In Nigeria

Abstract

Burn is a global problem with a magnitude of chains of psychological effects on surviving victims and socio economic implications for the individual, the immediate family and the society at large. This paper seeks to highlight the major consequences of burn injuries in the Nigerian society. There is a growing evidence of households in low and middle  income countries being pushed into poverty when faced with substantial medical expenses, particularly when this is combined with a loss of income due to illhealth. Impact of burn incidences if analyzed will show that affected individuals suffer a lot of pain, will not be able to function in the usual role e.g. as father, mother, teacher, manager, daughter, etc. This leads to loss of income which will affect compliance with treatment which will increase potential for complications such as septicemia, contractures and disfigurement. The need for repeated surgery to reconstruct and refashion has accompanying clinical risk as well as large financial implications.
The paper recommends that government should promulgate laws that will
enforce use of appropriate materials in building industries, equip power supply authorities and those responsible for maintaining manufacturing
standards to ensure primary prevention. It should continue investing in
training and retraining of personnel involved in burn care and establishes
more burn units with attached rehabilitative and counseling units to achieve effective management. A national burn management guideline would also enhance management and outcome of burn injury.