Each year, more than 3,500 children suffer serious injuries from button battery ingestion around the world. As pediatric gastroenterologists, we know that these small batteries, found in everyday household items, can cause life-threatening damage within hours if swallowed.
June 12 is International Button Battery Awareness Day – and NASPGHAN is joining FISPGHAN in spreading awareness about this hidden danger.
What You Can Do:
✔ Share the campaign graphics and messages on social media.
✔ Educate parents and caregivers on prevention & emergency response.
✔ Encourage safe storage and disposal of button batteries.
Key Facts to Share:
- An esophageal button battery conducts current and can perforate the mucosa in less than 2 hours.
- If a child swallows a button battery, they should go to the ER immediately.
- If swallowed within 12 hours, giving honey (for children over 1 year old) can help delay injury while heading to the hospital.
Have pediatric GI experience with a button battery ingestion?
- Send us a report using the link here
- By sharing your experience, you support international efforts to prevent pediatric harm and FISPGHAN advocacy efforts for improved safety regulations.
Help spread the word! Download our campaign materials using the link here, and share the message.
Together, we can save lives.
