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Published on: August 5, 2014
Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injuries in Natural Disasters, a Call for Better Preparedness: A Systematic Literature
Alex S Aguirre1, Kenny Rojas1, Alcy R Torres1
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, USA.
Insights
Pediatric traumatic brain injuries are common after natural disasters. More research is needed to improve care and preparedness for children facing these events.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Traumatology
- Disaster Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Natural disasters pose significant long-term health risks to children, especially those in high-stress environments.
- Pediatric traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a critical concern in disaster scenarios.
- Understanding these injuries is vital for addressing health disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and characteristics of pediatric traumatic brain injuries resulting from natural disasters.
- To synthesize existing evidence on TBI in children affected by natural disasters.
- To identify gaps in knowledge and inform future preparedness strategies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.
- Searched five databases for relevant publications.
- Included 9 studies out of 32,785 records, extracting and analyzing clinical data.
Main Results:
- Traumatic brain injuries were the most prevalent injury in pediatric populations affected by natural disasters.
- Males and females were equally affected, with a mean age of 9.8 years.
- Mortality rates for pediatric TBI in disasters were less than 16%, varying with disaster severity and preparedness.
Conclusions:
- Head injuries are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children post-disaster.
- Limited evidence-based information exists on optimal care for pediatric TBIs in disaster settings.
- Enhanced disaster preparedness is crucial to protect children from TBI and improve outcomes.
Abstract:
IntroductionPediatric traumatic brain injuries arising from natural disasters pose a significant long-term risk, particularly in the vulnerable population of children in high-stress situations. We aimed to gain insights into this matter to increase its understanding and potentially address health disparities with evidence.MethodsWe searched the 5 databases following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines to identify publications discussing traumatic brain injuries in children in the context of natural disasters. Of 32,785 records, only 9 met criteria for inclusion. We extracted and analyzed clinical data relevant to our topic.ResultsTraumatic brain injuries are one of the most prevalent injuries found in this pediatric population accountable for the major risk factor for morbidity and fatalities, followed by orthopedic injuries and infected wounds. Males and females were affected equally, with a mean age around 9.8 years. Mortality rates varied but were lower than 16%, contingent on the severity of the disaster and the level of preparedness of the affected area.ConclusionsHead injuries are one of the most prevalent pediatric injuries in disasters. However, there is limited evidence-based information regarding best strategies and care for children experiencing traumatic brain injuries in this context. This study suggests the need of a concerted effort to strengthen preparedness for natural disasters to ultimately foster a safer world for the children.
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