Decrease in pediatric farm-related injuries presenting to United States emergency departments: A national study from...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric injury surveillance
• Agricultural safety research
• Public health epidemiology

Background:

• Pediatric farm-related injuries are less common but more severe than other childhood injuries.
• These injuries often result from industrial hazards, unsafe worksites, or recreational activities, leading to costly treatments and hospitalizations.
• Rural injuries may require delayed care due to travel for specialized treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate trends in farm-related injuries among youth presenting to U.S. emergency departments (EDs) between 2014 and 2023.
• To identify common injury mechanisms, affected body parts, and demographic factors in pediatric farm injuries.
• To inform targeted prevention strategies for child safety in agricultural settings.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database, representing approximately 100 U.S. EDs.
• Queried for injuries in individuals aged 0-18 occurring on farms from 2014 to 2023.
• Analyzed injury diagnoses, affected body parts, injury mechanisms, age groups, and hospitalization rates.

Main Results:

• A total of 750 ED visits (estimated 33,664 cases nationally) were identified, with injury rates significantly decreasing over the study period (P=0.012).
• Fractures were the most common diagnosis (21.8%). Head injuries were most frequent overall (16%), particularly in 11-12 year olds.
• Horseback riding was the leading injury mechanism (31.8%), and the overall hospitalization rate was 13.5%.

Conclusions:

• The incidence of farm-related injuries among youth has declined, but significant risks persist.
• Horseback riding, head injuries, and high hospitalization rates highlight key areas for intervention.
• Targeted prevention efforts focusing on 11-12 year olds and child safety in agricultural recreational activities are essential.