Скачать или смотреть Child Passenger Safety and Associations with the Child Opportunity Index

2024 SAEMF/RAMS Medical Student Research Grant $2,500

Although motor vehicle crash (MVC)-related injuries are largely preventable, they lead to one million deaths globally each year. In the U.S., they contribute to over 30,000 total crash deaths annually and are the primary cause of 5-14 year-old mortality. MVCs comprise a large percentage of adult and pediatric emergency department (ED) visits. In 2017, the City of Chicago identified a Vision Zero Action Plan showing how traffic crashes affect communities in the city unequally, however, it did not include information on child restraint use or focus on pediatric populations.

Lurie Children’s Hospital is the largest pediatric provider in the state, and its ED receives a high burden of MVC sequelae. The objective of our study is to analyze and visualize child passenger safety data collected for the ED-based Tiny Cargo, Big Deal R014 in relation to socio-demographic characteristics among families in the greater Chicago area, using appropriate restraint use as a proxy. Proper car seat usage reduces the likelihood of injuries and deaths. Associations seen in restraint appropriateness with families of lower socioeconomic status (SES) often lead to increased hospitalization and mortality. Understanding patterns and areas of need across the city is integral to identifying at-risk populations for early intervention. Interventions include the deployment of educational materials and child passenger safety technicians, and further studies related to traffic safety in the city. Funding awarded through this SAEMF Medical Student Grant will allow me to develop the technical skills needed for analyses, biostatistical consultation, and travel to present findings.

Presenter:

Arthi Kozhumam, MScGH
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago