High area deprivation index is associated with increased injury severity in pediatric burn patients

Area of Science:

• Pediatric burn research
• Injury epidemiology
• Socioeconomic factors in health

Background:

• Burn injuries are a major cause of death and disability in children.
• Understanding factors influencing burn severity is crucial for prevention and treatment.
• This study investigates the interplay of demographics, socioeconomic status, and burn severity in pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the relationship between patient demographics, socioeconomic factors, and burn severity in pediatric burn patients.
• To identify demographic and socioeconomic variables associated with increased burn severity (Total Body Surface Area involvement).
• To analyze the length of stay per TBSA in relation to patient characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 399 pediatric patients (under 14) hospitalized for burn injuries from 2015-2021.
• Data collected included burn mechanism, Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) percentage, surgical intervention, and Length of Stay (LOS).
• Area Deprivation Index (ADI) was calculated to assess socioeconomic status.

Main Results:

• High ADI, Caucasian race, and flame mechanism were independently associated with TBSA involvement greater than 5%.
• Caucasian patients had a shorter LOS per TBSA compared to other groups.
• The study included 399 pediatric burn patients, with a median age of 2 years.

Conclusions:

• Socioeconomic status and race are significant factors associated with pediatric burn severity.
• Targeted prevention strategies may be necessary for Caucasian children and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Further investigation into modifiable risk factors is essential for effective burn prevention campaigns.