The Impact of Environmental Factors on Eye Trauma in Children: A Retrospective Study in Albania

Eye trauma in children can lead to long-term visual impairment and significantly impact their quality of life. Environmental factors play a crucial role in the occurrence of such injuries. This retrospective study aims to investigate the influence of ambiental factors on eye trauma among children in Albania. A retrospective analysis was conducted using data obtained from the Albanian Statistical Center covering the period from January 2017 to December 2023. A total of 317 pediatric patients with eye trauma were included in the study. Data regarding demographics, types of trauma, mechanisms of injury, and environmental factors were collected and analyzed. The study found that environmental factors significantly contributed to eye trauma in children. The most common environmental factors associated with eye injuries included inadequate supervision during outdoor activities, presence of hazardous objects in the environment, and lack of protective eyewear. Seasonal variations were observed, with a higher incidence of eye trauma during the summer months when outdoor activities are more prevalent. This retrospective study highlights the significant impact of environmental factors on eye trauma in children in Albania. Strategies focusing on improving supervision during outdoor activities, implementing safety measures and promoting the use of protective eyewear could help reduce the risk of eye injuries among pediatric populations. Further research and targeted interventions are warranted to address this public health concern effectively. Received: 21 August 2024 / Accepted: 15 November 2024 / Published: 3 December 2024