Seasonal differences in burn injuries and outcomes among adults and older adults at a Canadian provincial burn center.

Abstract

Background: The literature provides hints of seasonal influences on burn injury occurrence and outcomes in temperate climates. Still, data for geographic regions experiencing significant changes in climate throughout the year is scarce. Especially the influence of seasonal differences in burn incidence and outcomes for older adults (≥60 years old), a particularly vulnerable patient cohort with increased mortality and morbidity compared to adults (18-59 years old), has not been investigated so far. Since burns pose a significant public health concern, we aimed to understand seasonal burn injury admission patterns and outcomes to utilize them for targetable prevention measures and effective resource allocation.

Methods: This retrospective single-center cohort study examined data from adult burn patients (≥18 years) with reported %TBSA (Total Body Surface Area) treated between 2006 and 2020 at a provincial burn center in Ontario, Canada. Patients were stratified based on age group: adults (18-59 years) and older adults (≥60 years) Demographic data, comorbidities, and clinical outcomes were compared.

Results: A total of 2445 eligible patients were enrolled in this study. Most burn injuries occurred in Summer, in which the burn patient population was also significantly younger compared to Winter. Summer admissions showed a greater median %TBSA. In contrast, length of stay per %TBSA (LOS:TBSA) revealed a shorter hospitalization in Summer compared to Winter. However, mortality did not show differences across seasons.

Conclusion: Seasonal variations in the incidence and severity of burn injuries, along with associated fluctuations in LOS:TBSA, exist between age groups. This understanding can assist in tailoring burn prevention programs and aid in anticipating the types of burn injuries that may occur during specific times of the year to enhance patient care strategies.