Article

Previous epidemiological studies of adole-scent idiopathic scoliosis
in mainland China have had diverse results. The aim of this cross-sectional study
was to determine the epidemiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis based on a
representative sample city, Wuxi, in eastern China.
METHODS: Primary and
secondary school students aged 10-16 years were enrolled in the study. Physical
examination and Adam's forward bending test, combined with scoliometer
measurements were performed at school-based screening. Students with an angle of
trunk inclination of 5 degrees or more were referred for whole-spine X-ray. The
threshold for confirmed diagnosis was a Cobb angle of 10 degrees or more.
RESULTS: A total of 79,122 students were screened. The overall prevalence of
adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in Wuxi City was estimated as 2.4%. Girls had a
higher prevalence in each age subgroup compared with boys. Higher prevalence was
found in individuals with lower body mass index. Mild and moderate curves were
the most common types in our study. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of adolescent
idiopathic scoliosis in this region was slightly higher. Medical resources should
be considered for children with lower body mass index and high risk of scoliotic
progression. Measurement with a scoliometer would be suitable for
mild-to-moderate scoliotic deformities, while alternative methods should be
developed for those with severe deformities or higher body mass index.

Langue : ANGLAIS