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Childhood trauma in Owerri (south eastern) Nigeria

S O Ekenze1, K K Anyanwu, D O Chukwumam

  • 1Paediatric Surgical Unit, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri. soekenze@yahoo.com

Nigerian Journal of Medicine : Journal of the National Association of Resident Doctors of Nigeria
|June 3, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Childhood trauma in southeastern Nigeria is common, with road traffic accidents being the leading cause. Improving emergency services and prevention can reduce mortality from injuries in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Trauma Care
  • Public Health in Developing Nations

Background:

  • Childhood trauma is a significant cause of morbidity in developing countries.
  • Understanding regional trauma patterns is crucial for effective prevention and treatment programs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the pattern and outcomes of childhood trauma in southeastern Nigeria.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective analysis of 1,642 children managed for trauma at the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Nigeria.
  • Data collected from January 1, 1999, to December 31, 2004.

Main Results:

  • Road traffic accidents (46.7%), falls (17.1%), and assaults (16.1%) were the primary causes of trauma in children aged 3 months to 15 years.
  • Lacerations (61.1%), bruises (45.0%), and fractures (21.4%) were the most common injuries, with 60.7% experiencing multiple injuries.
  • Delayed hospital presentation (mean 2.7 days) and deaths (2.5%) were noted, with severe head injury being the leading cause of mortality.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood trauma in southeastern Nigeria exhibits diverse patterns.
  • Delayed presentation and preventable deaths highlight the need for enhanced emergency medical services and targeted preventive strategies.
Abstract

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