Coffee break – Epidemiologic analysis, traditions & holidays that increase burn risk of pediatric patients

Abstract

BackgroundBurns are estimated to cause up to 1% of admissions to emergency department in low- and middle-income countries, and up to 220 admissions per 100 K people in high income countries. Knowing the special features in every population could help formulate prevention strategies tailored for the specific group targeted and thus help decrease the incidence of burns in the general population. Patients and MethodsWe examined all patients files admitted to the Rappaport hospital within Rambam Medical Center between the years 2012–2016. ResultsMale admissions accounted for 57% (18.1 per 100 K life years) of all admissions. Scald was the most prominent cause of burn in all the cohort subgroups, with 65% of all burns. The specific cause of scald varied in the subgroups. Burns usually happened during weekend (p < 0.001). Transition seasons, i.e. autumn and spring, were the most dangerous for our cohort (p < 0.001). ConclusionsPediatric burn patterns were found correlate to population, timing, and customs. Mapping the hazardous rituals that may cause burns in different populations, is the first step towards prevention.