Taking selfies has now been labeled a ‘public health problem,’ with researchers in Australia urging public awareness and app interventions after analyzing a surge in deaths and injuries at scenic locations worldwide.

The study, examining five scientific papers and 12 media reports, revealed alarming trends, indicating that nearly 400 incidents occurred globally between 2008 and 2021, with 77 in the US alone.

The comprehensive analysis conducted by academics at the University of New South Wales highlighted that the majority of victims were female tourists in their early 20s.

Falling and drowning while attempting to capture the perfect shot were identified as the leading causes of death.

Dr. Samuel Cornell and fellow researchers emphasized the urgency of addressing the ‘selfie-related incident phenomenon’ through a targeted public health response.

They called for direct safety messaging on social media apps, reaching the estimated 92 million daily selfie-takers globally.

Despite previous suggestions of “no selfie zones,” barriers, and signage, the study found these measures might not be sufficient. Dr. Cornell stated, ‘It may be prudent to also engage in direct safety messaging to social media users.’

The study recounted tragic incidents, including the death of 20-year-old student Andrea Norton, who fell 100 feet off a cliff in Arkansas while taking a selfie in 2019. Norton’s family described her as a nature lover devoted to environmental preservation.

Notable cases, such as the 2021 death of Instagram star Sofia Cheung in Hong Kong and a 21-year-old hiker’s fatal fall in Arizona, underscore the global impact of selfie-related incidents.

Near-misses, including a cruise passenger’s fall from a ship railing and a tourist surviving a volcano crater plunge in Italy, further highlight the dangers.

The researchers discovered a concerning rise in injuries and deaths from selfies over time, peaking in 2019 with 68 reported fatalities.

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a brief decline in 2020, with a resurgence in the first half of 2021, recording 31 deaths.

With an average victim age of 22, the study identified India as the most common country for selfie deaths (100), followed by the US (39) and Russia (33).

The findings prompt a critical call for proactive measures to address the escalating public health issue surrounding selfie-related incidents globally.