Fall-related injuries and their variation by age and gender

Background: Fall-related injuries are a leading cause of injury in Iowa with increasing occurrence particularly with the aging population. This analysis of statewide trauma data was done to determine the variation in characteristics of falls by age and gender.

Methods: The study population consisted of patients in the Iowa Trauma Registry from January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2006 that sustained a fall-related injury (unintentional; n=16,230 patients). Age and gender patterns were examined by demographic, injury event, injury type, severity, and outcome characteristics.

Results: Males less than age 55 were more likely to sustain a fall injury than females; while females 55 and older encountered more fall injuries than males (p<0.0001). Different level falls were most common in males under age 75 (p<0.0001). Males less than age 45 were more likely to fall from other fall types, and those aged 45-74 fell more often from ladders (p<0.0001). Females less than age 45 were more likely to fall from different levels (p<0.0001). Females aged 15-44 fell more often on stairs/steps, those aged 5-14 fell mostly from playground equipment, and those less than age 5 fell more often from other fall types (p<0.0001).

Conclusions: Since patterns of fall injuries differ by age and gender, prevention strategies need to be focused on these aspects. For instance, in the middle age range (males), similar strategies for occupational falls need to be applied for home fall prevention (e.g., ladder use/stabilization). Environmental conditions such as weather, home design, and structural surfaces may warrant change in behaviors.