Incidence of School-related Injuries among Students in A'Dakhiliyah Governorate Schools, Oman

Abstract

Childhood injuries are among the most significant causes of mortality and morbidity as estimated by the World Health Organization. We sought to assess the incidence of school-related injuries in A'Dakhiliyah governorate schools, with the secondary aim of addressing common causes, risk factors, and how the school environment contributes to injuries. We conducted a prospective cohort study involving all students in A'Dakhiliyah governorate schools during the 2015–2016 academic year. Data were collected using a questionnaire that was filled out by the school nurses or social workers at school health units. The incidence of school-related injuries was 2.3% per year. The majority of injured students were in grades 1–4 (63.7%) and 72.6% were boys. Improper school equipment and furniture accounted as a risk factor for 25.3% of injuries. The three most common mechanisms causing injury were falling (50.4%, n = 584), collision with an object (30.7%, n = 356), and collision with a person (18.8%, n = 218). Asphalt (59.5%, n = 295) and concrete (40.5%, n = 201) were the most common surfaces in the school environment to contribute to injuries. School-related injuries are not uncommon and can be prevented by improving the infrastructure of school buildings and supplying appropriate school stationary equipment for age. Our results are useful in developing a national injury prevention program aimed at enhancing safety in school environments.