[Epidemiological study of fractures in Japanese children and adolescents].

ABSTRACT

We reviewed our previous population-based survey regarding fractures in 55,464 Japanese children, conducted in 2001. (total 773 fractured cases [prevalence 1.4%] , males 527 casesc [1.9%] females 246 cased [0.9%] , respectively) . The peak age-sex-specific incidences occurred at 7(th) - 8(th) grade (ages 12 to 13 years) for males, and at 5(th) - 6(th) grade (ages 10 to 11 years) for females, which was matched by the age of growth spurt. The incidences had a monthly variation, with peaks in spring and autumn (May, June, September, October, and November) . Furthermore, significant differences in fractures' characteristics were found between children in primary school and those in middle school. This data may contribute preventing fractures in Japanese children.