Which type of burn injury is the most common?

The most common type of burn injury is thermal burn. Thermal burns are typically caused by exposure to hot objects, liquids, steam, or flames. This type of burn is prevalent in everyday situations, such as scalding from hot liquids, contact with hot surfaces (like stoves), or flames from fires.

The frequency of thermal burns can largely be attributed to household accidents, workplace incidents, and outdoor activities. In contrast, while chemical, electrical, and radiation burns do occur and can cause severe damage, they are less frequent in day-to-day scenarios. For example, chemical burns usually result from contact with hazardous substances, electrical burns arise from electrical current passing through the body, and radiation burns are often associated with exposure to ultraviolet light or radiation treatments.

Understanding the commonality of thermal burns is important for prevention and management strategies in both the home and wider community.