Patterns of school injuries among children in Karachi, Pakistan

Introduction

The interaction of children with their environment makes them prone to injuries. This is important in schools where children are involved in physical activities which predispose them to injury. The objective was to review the types of injuries that occur within school environment of Karachi. 

Methods

This study was conducted in from May – July 2013 in public and private schools in Karachi, Pakistan. The data was being collected from class teachers on injuries that took place in last academic year. Only those injuries are being included that caused loss of at least one-half day of school and/or required medical attention and treatment from a school or other healthcare provider. About 62 class teachers from 25 schools participated. A total of 79 injuries were reported.

Results

Of the 80 injuries reported, 67.5% occurred in boys giving a male female ratio of 2.08:1. The frequently effected age group was between 8 – 11 years of age (n=30, 375%). Majority of these injuries occurred inside the school (n=78,97.5%%) and more than half occurred during sports activities (n=44,55%). Face (n=22,27.5%) andhead (n=18,22.5%) were the most commonly injured body parts.  The most common mechanism was fall (n=32, 40%).  Most common treatment given was bandage (n=17,21.25%) and stiches (n=12,15%). Almost all the students were under supervision (n=78,97.5%) at the time of injury by a teacher (n=52,65%).

Conclusion

Children are prone to get injuries within school environment, therefore there is need for developing injury prevention and management plans for schools tailored to resource constraint settings.