Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the occurrence of adolescent scoliosis (AS) and identify possible associated factors in Eastern China. METHODS: The screening technique involved performing forward bending tests and using scoliometer data. Adolescents at risk for scoliosis based on the screening were advised to undergo an x-ray examination for diagnosis confirmation. RESULTS: Between 2019 and 2023, a total of 90,635 adolescents, comprising 41,836 females and 48,799 males, aged 11-18, underwent screening. Among the screened adolescents in Eastern China, the overall prevalence of scoliosis was 0.62%, with 0.99% in females and 0.30% in males. Independently associated factors were identified as female gender (OR = 1.319, 95% CI 1.031-1.686, P = 0.027), BMI ≤ 20 (OR = 2.959, 95% CI 2.271-3.855, P < 0.001), a tendency to incline towards one side (OR = 2.129, 95% CI 1.564-2.898, P < 0.001), and a habit of bending over the desk (OR = 1.523, 95% CI 1.079-2.150, P = 0.017). CONCLUSION: The current study found that the occurrence rate of AS in Eastern China is 0.62%. Female adolescents who are thin and tall and have poor learning posture are more susceptible to developing scoliosis.