JUNEAU -- Studies published by the state health department show 8,991 cases of fall-related injury hospitalizations in Alaska from 2005 to 2009.

The studies, from the epidemiology section, show the highest rates of incidents among people older than 65, Alaska Natives, and northern Alaska residents. Falls more commonly occurred in the home. Among older residents, more than half the hospitalizations were considered serious or severe.

Lead author Deborah Hull-Jilly said preventing fall-related injuries is important for public health, noting the cost for treatment over the five years studied totaled more than $193 million. She said the studies provide a greater understanding of how falls occur in order to help prevent them.