INJURIES IN CHILDREN IN RURAL-AREAS - TRE NDS IN THE LIMOUSIN REGION

Four hundred eighty-five injuries in children residing in rural areas were seen over an eight-year period. Forty-five per cent of these inju ries occurred in the home. Evaluation of time trends showed a decrease in the number of burns with no change in the numbers of the other for ms of injury, despite the fact that the number of exposed children is probably decreasing, since fewer farmers have children and the number of inhabitants in rural areas is on the decline. A significant factor may be the increasing number of stays in farms organized for schools o r tourists. The causes and mechanisms of the injuries are discussed. A n in-depth study of the 59 injuries due to farming machinery revealed substantial morbidity and high costs of treatment. The other injuries were similar to household injuries seen in urban areas. Mortality (2%) was above the national average. Increased preventive efforts are need ed and require the involvement of physicians, teachers, and mutual ben efit insurance agencies for farmers. Local decision makers should be c onvinced of the need for injury control. European regulations are fort hcoming.