Abnormal spinal curvature and influencing factors in children and adolescents in Hangzhou

Abstract

Abstract Aims To investigate the prevalence and influencing factors of abnormal spinal curvature among primary and secondary school students in Hangzhou city, and provide ideas for the formulation of abnormal spinal curvature prevention and control measures. Methods Using a stratified cluster random sampling method, 5,652 students of primary and junior high school from 24 schools were investigated via questionnaires and abnormal spinal curvature screening in Hangzhou. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to screen possible risk factors of abnormal spinal curvature. Results The overall abnormal spinal curvature rate was 2.23%, with the increase of the school period, the prevalence of abnormal spinal curvature among students showing upward trend (χ2 = 90.679, P<0.001). The abnormal spinal curvature prevalence in boys is higher than that in girls (χ2 = 0.507, P = 0.477); the prevalence of abnormal spinal curvature in urban students is higher than that in suburban students (χ2 = 49.954, P<0.001). Accommodation at school is independently associated with higher prevalence of abnormal spinal curvature. Moreover, outdoor activity time ≥ 2h per day in the past one week, overweight, always maintain correct sitting and standing posture are protective factors for abnormal spinal curvature. Conclusions The abnormal spinal curvature prevalence among children and adolescents in Hangzhou is at a relatively low level, and is affected by most factors such as accommodation at school, outdoor activity time, Body Mass Index, sitting and standing posture, needing collaboration of school, students and parents to strengthen screening and prevention.