Lawnmower-Related Eye Injuries in the U.S., 2004 to 2023.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Lawnmower-related eye injuries represent a significant public health concern in the United States.
• Understanding the epidemiology and trends of these injuries is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the epidemiology, mechanisms, and trends of lawnmower-related eye injuries in the U.S. from 2004 to 2023.
• To identify high-risk populations and injury types associated with lawnmower use.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective trend analysis using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) emergency departments.
• Inclusion of 2467 NEISS cases of lawnmower-related eye injuries, excluding periorbital injuries.
• Descriptive and comparative analyses of national estimates derived from statistical weights to assess injury mechanisms, demographics, diagnoses, and trends over time.

Main Results:

• An estimated 120,613 lawnmower-related eye injuries occurred between 2004 and 2023, predominantly affecting males (82%) and adults (95%).
• Projectiles (grass, dirt, rocks) were the primary cause (77%), leading to common diagnoses like abrasions and foreign bodies; severe injuries included open globes and retinal detachments.
• While overall annual injuries decreased by 33% from 2018-2023 compared to 2004-2017, injuries increased among Black and Hispanic individuals, and bystanders, particularly children, faced higher rates of severe injury.

Conclusions:

• Lawnmower-related eye injuries, especially those caused by projectiles, remain a serious risk requiring targeted interventions.
• There is a critical need to enhance the use of safety glasses during mower operation and maintenance.
• Preventing bystander presence, particularly children, is essential to reduce severe injury rates.