According to the Center for Disease Control, 1.7 million hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) occur each year, contributing to nearly 100,000 deaths. This is a staggering figure, one that outnumbers diabetes, pneumonia and suicide. In fact, HAIs rival Alzheimer’s and stroke as the fifth leading cause of death of Americans.
While HAIs continue to threaten lives around the country, the healthcare industry is exploring new ways to prevent the spread of infectious agents and contaminants. This includes innovative building products, finishes and anti-microbial surfaces. With more than $40 billion spent annually on new hospital construction and renovations to existing facilities, it’s clear that healthcare and hospital systems around the country have a major opportunity (and mandate) to provide patients with safe, modern care.