Decline of cash credited for drop in surgery for children swallowing objects

a year ago

Cashless societies have led to fewer children needing surgery for swallowing small items.
NHS figures show a 29% drop in surgeries to remove foreign bodies from children's noses, throats, or airways between 2012 and 2022.
The decline in loose change due to contactless payments is the main reason for the reduction in such cases.
Coins historically accounted for over 75% of objects swallowed by children under six.
Despite the drop, parents should remain vigilant about children swallowing dangerous items like button batteries and magnets.
Ingesting such objects can cause deadly internal complications within hours.
Parents are advised to take children to A&E immediately if they suspect ingestion of harmful objects, even without symptoms.
The reduction in such cases benefits both children and the overburdened NHS services.

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