Fireworks and Seafood Boils: The Epidemiology of Burns in Louisiana

Abstract

Epidemiological trends provide a means for targeting efforts in burn prevention. There have been but few regional-specific studies concerning burns in the southern United States. This study describes burn injury trends experienced by a single burn center in Louisiana. We also investigate the temporal relationships of several activities informally known for having a high risk for burn injury among local providers. Data were retrospectively extracted from the records of all patients treated for burn injuries at the regional burn center from 2012 to 2018 in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Demographical data and burn injury characteristics were noted. A total of 6,498 patients were included (1,593 inpatient, 4,905 outpatient). The most common burn etiologies were scald and flame, with flame being associated with more severe injuries. Overall incidence was disproportionally high in males and children less than 4 years of age. Total incidence was highest in Caucasians, though African Americans held the highest annual incidence rate specific to this population. The most common situation at the time of burn injury involved the consumption or preparation of food or beverages. Significant variation was observed in the rates of different injury situations throughout the year. Notably, burns related to seafood, heating, and firework activity occurred more often during crawfish season, colder months, and the months of January and July, respectively. In addition to establishing preliminary trends, these data may be useful in guiding the development of future evidence-based prevention efforts to target the most detrimental burn injuries in this population.

Adult kitchen-related burn injuries: The impact of COVID-19

“…However, as expected, more kitchen-related burn injuries were sustained during the pandemic at home than at work. This is in keeping with prior studies as the kitchen is a common location for burn injuries at home [20] .…”

The Impact of Race/Ethnicity on the Outcomes of Burn Patients: A Systematic Review of the Literature

“…15 A study on the epidemiology of burns in Louisiana demonstrated that the annual burn incidence rate was highest among Black individuals, though white patients had the greatest incidence of severe burns with total body surface area (TBSA) >20%. 16 Black patients in Louisiana had higher burn rates in situations involving bathing, cosmetics, and seafood preparation, whereas whites had higher rates in automotive, bonfire, and smoking situations. 16 With regards to ED visits and admissions, one study showed burn rates for Black patients visiting the Emergency Department was 62% higher than for whites.…”

“…16 Black patients in Louisiana had higher burn rates in situations involving bathing, cosmetics, and seafood preparation, whereas whites had higher rates in automotive, bonfire, and smoking situations. 16 With regards to ED visits and admissions, one study showed burn rates for Black patients visiting the Emergency Department was 62% higher than for whites. 17 Admission rates in that same study were lower for Black adult patients, though a different study on pediatric burn patients specifically found that Black children versus white children were over seven times more likely to be admitted for burn treatment.…”

“…20 Within the Louisiana subculture, it was noted that whites were more likely to be burned in automotive, bonfire, and smoking situations. 16…”

Characteristics of burns in children – results of a Polish multicentre study

“…Moreover, the assessment of child and adolescent injury prevention and safety promotion in Poland made by Malinowska-Cieślik et al revealed that child home safety related to prevention of falls, burns and scalds, choking, and strangulation has not received adequate attention [5]. Information about the epidemiology of burns in children can provide a means for targeting efforts in burn prevention [6].…”