SCHOOL SCREENING FOR SCOLIOSIS IN BAGHDAD

In two different residential areas in Baghdad, 4295 schoolchildren aged 8-13 years from two different socioeconomic groups were screened for scoliosis by using the forward bending test and a scoliometer to measure the angle of trunk rotation. A total of 188 children were referred to hospital, but the actual number seen was 140. A standing anteroposterior X-ray was taken of those with abnormal clinical findings and 101 children were considered to suffer from scoliosis (with a Cobb angle of 5 degrees or more). The predictive value of a positive test was 72.14%. The overall prevalence of scoliosis was 2.4%; 86.14% of the curves were idiopathic. Idiopathic scoliosis was more prevalent in the adolescent (3.4%) than in the preadolescent period (1.8%). The female to male ratio was 1.4: 1 and this ratio increased with the increase in severity of the curve. The area of residence had no effect on the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis. Idiopathic scoliosis was more prevalent in children born of older mothers. Children with idiopathic scoliosis tended to carry their school bags in their hands and their participation in sport both inside and outside school was relatively less than the control group. A left, thoracolumbar curve was the most common pattern. Of the 101 children, 24.75% were observed every 3 to 6 months and 4.95% were put in braces. The rest were advised to be rechecked 1 year later.