Prevalence and associated factors of multi-ethnic adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in Longlin, Southwestern China

A school-based cross-sectional study

Bibliographic Data

ID22087802
AuthorsChengxiang Hu (Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine), Baocheng Lin (Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine), Fengtao Li (Guangxi Longtan Hospital), Zhixing Li (0000-0002-2580-5169, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine), Xiaozhuan Chen, Xiao-zhuan Chen (Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume13
Pages1729509-1729509
Publication date2025-12-15
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueFrontiers in Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2296-2565 • E-ISSN: 2296-2565
PublisherFrontiers Media SA (PUBLISHER • CH)
DOI10.3389/fpubh.2025.1729509
PMID41473732
OpenAlexW4417312332
LanguageEN
References cited66

Objective To determine the prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and its associated factors among multi-ethnic schoolchildren in Southwestern China. Methods A cross-sectional school-based study was conducted involving 22,814 students aged 10–18 years. Screening comprised the Adams forward bend test; positives underwent radiographic confirmation (Cobb angle ≥10°). Demographic and behavioral data were collected via questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression identified independent associated factors. Results The screening positive rate was 3.83%, and the confirmed AIS prevalence rate was 1.37%. While no significant ethnic difference existed in screening positive rates ( p = 0.078), the confirmed prevalence rates differed ( p = 0.029), being relatively higher in Yi (1.52%) and GeLao (1.54%) adolescents. Girls showed a significantly higher screening positive rate than boys (4.64% vs. 3.12%, p < 0.001), but no statistically significant gender difference was found in the confirmed prevalence rates ( p = 0.157). Notably, the positive predictive value was higher in boys (40.90%) than girls (31.72%). Multivariate analysis revealed several factors independently associated with AIS, including abnormal BMI, lack of desk/chair adjustment, poor sleep posture, physical inactivity, improper reading/writing posture, excessive electronic device use, insufficient outdoor activity, inadequate sleep, and frequent sweet consumption. Conclusion The AIS prevalence in this multi-ethnic region aligns with global figures. School screening coupled with health interventions targeting modifiable associated factors is essential for AIS prevention and control. Comprehensive health promotion and early intervention targeting the identified significant factors should be an important future direction for AIS prevention

Health promotion · Idiopathic scoliosis · MEDLINE · Psychological intervention · Scoliosis · Scoliosis diagnosis and treatment · Shoulder Injury and Treatment · Spine and Intervertebral Disc Pathology · Epidemiology

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