ANALYSIS OF PREVALENCE AND FACTORS INFLUENCING ADOLESCENT IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS AMONG SCHOOL STUDENTS IN THIRUVALLUR DISTRICT

Abstract

Background: The occurrence of AIS is on a high, which necessitates preventive measures at the earliest for which screening is essential at the school level. Prevalence of AIS around the world is 0.4- 5.2 %. Scoliosis leads to problems
such as cosmetic deformity, quality of life, visible disability, backache, personal growth, autonomy, and reduced respiratory function. These problems can be prevented if scoliosis is diagnosed and treated earlier. To screen for AIS among selected schools and to analyze factors influencing adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Methods: A total of 3250 Students between age 11 to 15 years were screened for AIS from Thiruvallur district. The screening was performed at two levels using Adam’s forward bend test and scoliometer, respectively. A detailed analysis was performed on symptomatic AIS subjects (n=58) for various influencing factors and determinants.
Results: The prevalence of AIS from 11- 15 years was 0.27%, 0.30%, 0.49%, 0.36% and 0.33% respectively. AIS-affected thoracic region (50%) of females (58%) with a predominant right sided curvature (55%). Bag type and weight, sitting posture in a classroom, study posture was found to influence AIS.
Conclusion: This study emphasizes early screening of AIS for school children at the age of 11- 15 years based upon the high prevalence rates compared to global standards. Parents and teachers should be aware of the bag type and weight, sitting and studying posture for early prevention of AIS.