Computer related injuries skyrocketing in U.S.

Researchers from the Nationwide Children's Hospital and the Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus have found an unprecedented rise in computer related injuries, especially among children under the age of five.

Data analyzed over 13 years
According to data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, over 78,000 cases of acute computer-related injuries were treated in U.S. emergency departments between 1994 and 2006.

Over the period of 13 years, researchers found that computer ownership increased 309 percent but injuries from computers rose by more than 732 percent.

The maximum mishaps occurred in the house, accounting for approximately 93 percent of the wounds. The most common injuries were caused by hitting computer equipment or by the equipment falling on to the victim. It was found that the harmless-looking cord lying on the floor or the precariously balanced monitor could be extremely hazardous.

Monitor the main culprit
According to the research, tripping on wires caused 43 percent of the accidents in kids under-five and 38 percent among those over the age of 60.

The children under ten had most injuries to their head. The monitor seems to be the most dangerous piece of equipment to have around the house.

Lara B McKenzie, principal investigator said, “Children younger than 5 years had the highest injury rate and the greatest increase in rate over the study period. There are potential hazards, especially for children, in navigating a home that contains computers and computer equipment.”

Between 1994 and 2003, monitor-related mishaps rose from 11.6 percent to 37.1 percent. The percentage had fallen to 25.1 percent in 2006, thanks to the introduction of smaller, lighter, flat-panel LCD versions.

McKenzie stated, “Future research on acute computer-related injuries is needed as this ubiquitous product becomes more intertwined in our everyday lives. Given the large increase in (such) injuries over the study period, greater efforts are needed to prevent such injuries, especially among young children.”

Preventive measures
Most of the computer accidents are minor – bumps, bruises and cuts – and can easily be prevented if care is taken to see that computers are well-positioned so they cannot be pulled over by children.

The researchers stated, “Most computers and computer furniture in the home are not designed for children. Computer casings often have sharp corners or rough edges, wires and cords can be electrical and tripping hazards, and computer desks and chairs are too big for small children, providing ample opportunity for falls.”

The researchers advised computer owners to keep the machine stacked against the wall and pushed back firmly on the desk. Care should be taken to see that all electrical equipment and trailing wires are kept out of play areas.

The study was published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.