Low Socioeconomic Status and Burn Injuries in Switzerland: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis

Burn injuries are a significant global health challenge, often requiring complex management. Despite its wealth and advanced healthcare system, Switzerland lacks studies on whether certain demographic groups in the country may be more vulnerable to burns. This study aimed to investigate the causes and factors associated with burn injuries among adult patients not requiring intensive care at Switzerland's largest burn center.

This retrospective study analyzed burn admissions from 2018 to 2022 at the Burn Center of the University Hospital Zurich, including non-intensive care unit patients aged 16 years or older who were treated in the burn ward. Collected data included demographics, burn causes, injury characteristics, treatments, complications, and outcomes. Associations between patient factors and outcomes were analyzed using generalized linear models.

Among the 406 patients (median age 42, 68.2% male), 21.7% had a psychiatric disorder and 19.7% were unemployed. Patients underwent an average of 1.27 procedures, with a mean complication rate of 0.68 per patient, including 10.2% with wound-related complications. Complications were significantly more frequent in patients with psychiatric conditions, those who smoked or were on home oxygen therapy, and rural residents. Unemployment and psychiatric history were associated with longer hospital stays.

Low socioeconomic status has a significant impact on burn outcomes, even in a high-income country such as Switzerland. Preexisting psychiatric conditions, unemployment, and rural residence were associated with higher complication rates and longer hospital stays. Targeted prevention efforts for vulnerable populations and an interdisciplinary approach to burn care are needed.