Is the rise in childhood scoliosis related to heavy backpacks? HKCOS thinks not
Is the rise in childhood scoliosis related to heavy backpacks? HKCOS thinks not
According to a study by the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, as many as 11.6% of primary and secondary school children in Hong Kong have developed scoliosis, up from 2.75% as recorded ten years ago. The study has suggested a direct correlation between the usage of backpacks and the occurrence of scoliosis during children's development period.
Another study conducted by the Polytechnic University has shown that school children have a heightened risk of injuring their spines if their backpacks are more than one-tenth of their body weight. This figure is more conservative than the guideline established by the Department of Health in 2003, suggesting the maximum weight of school bags not to exceed 15% of children's body weight. The average weight of children’s school bag today is 11 pounds.
"Although wearing heavy backpacks could lead to back injuries, there is no overwhelming evidence in the scientific community linking the use of backpacks to spinal deformity, such as kyphosis or scoliosis," says Dr. Mak Kan-hing of the Hong Kong College of Orthopaedic Surgeons. "Scientists are still studying the factors that contribute to such non-congenital spinal degenerations among the youth."
In any case, wearing heavy backpacks could lead to muscle strains and injuries in the back, shoulders and chest. Therefore, it is important for parents to choose the right type of bags for their children and to guide them in the proper usage.