Prevalence of Back Deformities Among Primary School Students

Abstract

Background: The high incidence of spinal abnormalities among primary school students is a pressing health issue that demands attention. Recent epidemiological studies have emphasized the importance of spinal anomalies in this specific population. The rising prevalence can be attributed to factors such as sedentary lifestyles, insufficient ergonomic practices, and a lack of awareness. Understanding the extent of these abnormalities is crucial for promptly identifying and intervening since they might affect the general welfare and educational achievement of primary school students. The aim of this study was to estimate the Prevalence of Back Deformities among Primary School Students in Khartoum, Sudan 2022-2023. Materials and Methods: This study is an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional community-based study conducted in four government primary schools in the Bahri locality from November 2022 to February 2023 among primary school students. Data was analyzed and interpreted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) data analysis software version 26.0. Results: This study included a total of 383 primary school students in Bahri locality (males: 200 (52.2%) and females: 183 (47.8%). The male-to-female ratio is 1.1:1, with a mean age of 9 years and ranging from 6 to 12 years. The posture wall test and Adam forward bending test were used to diagnose coronal and sagittal deformities. The posture wall test was positive in 3 cases (0.78%). There were 3 cases of kyphosis, 2 males and 1 female. The deformity was in the thoracic region in all cases.