Figures revealed that at least 250 people have lost their lives while taking between October 2011 and November 2017.
According to a recent report, an average of 43 people died every year while taking selfies since 2011 due to drowning and falls among the biggest killers.
The study led by author Dr Agam Bansal, from the India Institute of Medical Sciences, also suggests that 7 out of 10 victims are men while millennial (aged 20-29) daredevils makeup almost half of selfie deaths.
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As a precautionary measure, scientists suggest establishing ‘no selfie’ zones across the globe to prevent selfie deaths.
A number of popular tourist spots in India have already implemented selfie bans this year following a string of recent fatalities.
“Selfies are themselves not harmful, but the human behaviour that accompanies selfies is dangerous. ‘No selfie zones’ should be declared across many areas, especially near water bodies, mountain peaks, and over tall buildings, to decrease the incidence of selfie-related deaths,” Bansal was quoted in a report.
According to reports, researchers conducted the largest ever review of fatalities caused by posing for self-shot photographs. In the process of their research, they analysed newspaper clippings from English-speaking nations from across the world, noting the gender, age and cause of death of each victim.
In total, the team documented some 259 selfie-linked deaths worldwide between October 2011 and November 2017.
Drowning (70), being struck by a vehicle (51) or suffering a fall (48) were the most common causes of death.
Meanwhile eight involved ‘animals’, 16 electrocution and 11 firearms.
Men were found to be more likely than women to die while taking a selfie – with 73% of victims being male.
“Although our study has enlisted the largest number of selfie deaths and incidents to date, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Many cases are not reported,” Bansal added.
Almost half of all selfie deaths occurred in the 20–29 year age group followed by 36% of deaths in 10–19 year age group.
The highest number of deaths has been reported from India followed by Russia, the USA, and Pakistan.