24 Predictors of injury among young children in New Zealand

Abstract

AimTo understand how risk factors in combination and events over time affect young children's risk of experiencing unintentional injuries and inform strategies to prevent their occurrence in New Zealand (NZ). MethodsA mixed methods approach, informed by a systematic review of the relevant literature, explored risk factors associated with unintentional injury among preschool children in NZ. A theoretical life course life course framework of child injury prevention was used to guide the analysis of data from the Growing up in NZ (GUiNZ) cohort linked to Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) injury claims for the cohort. The findings of the risk factor analyses were shared with key informants from relevant professional backgrounds, who were invited to suggest recommendations for new policies or strengthen existing policies to reduce child injury incidence in NZ. A policy Delphi analysis of the proposed recommendations was then conducted. FindingsAbout 74% of children (n=4156/5637) experienced at least one injury resulting in an ACC claim by age five, three-quarters of which occurred at home. Male sex (IRR=1.27), poor child health (IRR=1.18), developmental concern (IRR=1.43) and abnormal behaviour (IRR=1.15) were associated with higher Pearson Chi-Square Percentage of child injury 0-9 months (N=5499) 0-24 months(N=5511) 24-54 months (N=5624) 0-54 months (N=5500)