Risk factors of burns among children in Mongolia

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Injury Prevention

Background:

• Burns are a significant cause of injury in children under five globally.
• Understanding risk factors and caregiver awareness is crucial for reducing burn-related morbidity.
• Childhood burns in Mongolia require specific investigation due to unique environmental and social factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors associated with childhood burns in Mongolian children under five.
• To determine the prevalence of burn injuries among this demographic.
• To assess caregiver knowledge, practices, and help-seeking behaviors for childhood burns.

Main Methods:

• A household-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Mongolia from September to October 2010.
• Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire.
• The study included 865 households and 1154 children under five years of age.

Main Results:

• A lifetime prevalence of burn injury was found in 25.2% of the 1154 children studied.
• Scalds were the most common type of burn, and most burns occurred within the home environment.
• Significant risk factors included younger age (up to 36 months), being male, and having fewer children (<3) in the household. Urban children faced higher risk.
• Caregiver knowledge and practices regarding burn care were generally insufficient, though the importance of the home's physical environment was recognized.

Conclusions:

• Childhood burns are highly prevalent among under-five children in Mongolia.
• Caregiver knowledge and practices related to burn prevention and care are inadequate.
• Targeted interventions, such as caregiver education programs focusing on safe domestic environments, are recommended to reduce childhood burns in Mongolia.