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Epidemiology of childhood burns at the Burn Centre in Brno, Czech Republic
Z Dĕdovic1, P Brychta, I Koupilová
1Burn Centre, Bohunice Faculty Hospital, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.
Insights
Childhood burn injuries, particularly scalds in toddlers, are common, with home environment and social factors playing a significant role. Prevention strategies should target these high-risk groups and situations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Burn Medicine
Background:
- Childhood burn injuries represent a significant public health concern.
- Understanding the epidemiology of pediatric burns is crucial for effective prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence, characteristics, and risk factors of pediatric burn admissions.
- To identify trends and contributing factors for burn injuries in children aged 0-14 years.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 394 children admitted to a burn center over 3 years.
- Data collection included patient demographics, injury type, time, location, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Overall incidence: 31 per 100,000 children (0-14 years).
- Most common age group: 1-3 years; scalds accounted for ~80%.
- Injuries predominantly occurred at home, with social/economic factors significantly influencing incidence.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric burn injuries are frequent, with toddlers being most vulnerable, primarily due to scalds at home.
- Risk is elevated in the late afternoon, and social/economic determinants are key.
- Targeted prevention efforts focusing on home safety and socioeconomic support are essential.
Abstract:
Three hundred and ninety-four children were admitted to the burn centre in Brno over a 3-year period. The overall incidence was 31 children per 100,000 children aged 0-14 years. The majority of patients were aged 1-3 years and almost 80 per cent of them were scalded. Proportionally more boys than girls were injured, in most cases at home in the presence of one or both parents. The highest risk time for injuries was between 16.00 and 18.00 h. Seasonal variations had no significant influence on the increased number of admissions to the burn centre. Sixty-six per cent of the children had minor burns. Four children died of the consequences of burns during the period studied. Social and economic factors had a significant influence on the incidence of childhood burns.