Scuba diving-related fatalities in New Zealand

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Lippmann J et al.

January 27, 2022

Summary:

Māori appear to be over-represented in New Zealand scuba diving-related fatalities, according to a study of data from 2007 to 2016. Data were obtained from the National Coronial Information System, the New Zealand Chief Coroner’s office, Water Safety New Zealand Drownbase™ and the New Zealand Police National Dive Squad records. A total of 48 fatalities were identified, including 40 men and 8 women, of whom 20 were Māori. Average age was 47 years, and 35 individuals were classified as overweight or obese. Identified medical risk factors included ischaemic heart disease (20 individuals), left ventricular hypertrophy (18) and hypertension (7). Multiple environmental and diving practice breaches, and poor planning, were identified in a chain of events analysis. Thirty-eight individuals had not released their weight belt, and information on resuscitation was limited.

Comment:

Reporting numbers, especially when we see inequities, is important. However, the narrative or way we speak to those numbers is just as critical. Here, I felt that the results were reported in ways that could be considered ‘victim-blaming’ with not enough attention to system factors, or solutions.

Reference: Diving Hyperb Med. 2021;51(4):345- 354.

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.