Holiday injuries stem from everyday causes: study

Although public health officials traditionally warn against specific holiday-related injuries at certain times of the year, a new study suggests more focus should be given to everyday causes.

Examining the 5.7 million holiday-related injuries sustained by children between 1997 and 2006, researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, OH, found most injuries stemmed from common causes, such as sports and recreational activities, or home structures and furnishings, according to a study abstract.

For example, although more fireworks injuries occur on Independence Day than at any other time of the year, fireworks account for only 2.9 percent of all Fourth of July injuries.

The greatest number of holiday injuries occurs around Labor Day, followed by Memorial Day, Independence Day and Halloween. Study authors suggest both parents and children should be mindful of the risk of everyday injuries in spite of the holiday atmosphere.

The study was published in the April 5 online edition of the journal Pediatrics.