Burn injuries among infants and toddlers in the United States, 1997-2002.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the magnitude and causes of unintentional burn injuries attributed to hot objects or substances among children aged birth to 4 years in the United States.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care System.

RESULTS

Annually, 78,000 infants and toddlers were treated in ambulatory care settings for injuries due to contact with a hot object or substance. Hot foods, curling irons, or clothing irons were the main causes of burns.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the varied causes of burns, a combination of health education and product design interventions are likely necessary to prevent these injuries.