|
Abstract
|
Background
Every year, approximately 950, 000 children are killed because of injuries and nonfatal injuries affect the lives of between 10 million and 30 million children globally. 95% of these deaths and injuries occur in low and middle income countries.
Objectives
To estimate the incidence and describe the profile of injuries in children aged 0-14 years in an urban underprivileged area in Bangalore city and to determine the factors associated with it.
Methodology
This was a community based cross sectional study among children 0-14 years. A systematic random sampling was done to select 325 children. Injuries which restricted child's normal daily activities for more than a day were considered and classified using ICD-10. A pre-tested and validated interview schedule was administered to consenting caretakers.
Results
92 injuries had occurred in 81 children over a period of one year. All were reported to be unintentional injuries. Injury rate was 283.08 (95% CI 231-329) per 1000 child years. The most common cause of injury was falls (55.43%), followed by dog bites (16.30%), burns (8.70%), RTAs (6.53%) and other injuries (13.04%). Majority (36.9%) were abrasions followed by lacerations (34.8%). Majority of the injuries occurred in the street (38%) and while playing (61%). Male gender, low socio economic status and children whose caretakers were working, were found to be at a significantly higher risk to sustain injuries.
Conclusion
Falls, dog bites, burns and road traffic accidents were the most common causes for childhood injuries. Male gender, low socio economic status and children whose caretakers were working, were found to be at a significantly higher risk to sustain injuries.
Language: en |