Pediatric Trauma: Epidemiology, Prevention, and Control

Globally, the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among infants, children, and adolescents is trauma. Although pediatric injury is well studied in the developed world, much is unknown regarding childhood injury in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Understanding the epidemiology of injury among children may facilitate the development of prevention initiatives and preparation of the health system to care for these patients. In this chapter, we review the classification systems and common mechanisms and risk factors of injury. To reduce the rates of pediatric injury and improve the outcomes of injured children, systematic data collection and review should be a component of clinics, hospitals, and health systems. Additionally, the surgeon can play a role in injury control through championing local or wider surveillance, counseling children and parents in prevention, organizing trauma care, performing research, and advocating for better resources.