The epidemiology of childhood burns in Jiamusi, China.

The causes and severities of burning injury were analysed in 1006 children admitted to our department over a 11-year period. A substantial number of patients were less than 5 years old. Proportionally more boys and less girls were injured. More of the accidents occurred in summer and winter and less during the spring and autumn; more occurred in the rural and mountain areas than in the cities. In the younger children 88 per cent of the injuries occurred at home while eating and drinking, only a few burns happening in kindergarten and school. This report suggests which methods of prevention should be stressed.