Two Decades of Burns in Queensland (2003-2023): A Retrospective Analysis of Prospectively Collected Data

Burns pose a significant public health concern due to their severe physical and psychosocial effects and the need for specialised care. Understanding their epidemiology is vital for prevention, resource allocation and disaster planning. The Queensland Adult Burns Centre is the primary referral service for adult burns in the state, which has not seen an epidemiological update since 2005.

This prospectively collected, retrospective study analysed 7364 patients admitted to the QABC from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2023, with comparisons made between the first decade (D1, 2004-2013) and second decade (D2, 2014-2023).

Annual admissions showed an increasing trend. Most burns occurred in young men; however, the proportion of elderly comorbid patients significantly increased. Flame burns were the most common cause (43.54%), followed by scalds (24.69%) and contact burns (18.62%). The median total body surface area burned was 1.5% (IQR 0.51%-4.0%), with 11.47% of patients requiring ICU admission. Median hospital stay decreased from 7 to 6 days. Most burns occurred in domestic settings; however, workplace burns continue to represent a significant volume of cases (14.17%). For burns ≥ 40%, length of stay decreased from a median of 47.5-32 days, ICU stay remained constant at 12.5 days and mortality rose from 29.66% (83 survived with 35 deaths) to 38.55% (51 survived with 32 deaths).

This study illustrates the evolving burn epidemiology in Queensland, highlighting the need for updated public health strategies, resource management and clinical practices. The rise in elderly comorbid patients, persistent high workplace burns rates and changing burn aetiology necessitate targeted interventions to prevent injuries and improve outcomes.