SickKids Hospital in Toronto has reported a concerning increase in the number of injuries related to e-scooters and e-bikes. According to the hospital, there has been a spike in the number of children and adolescents being treated for injuries caused by these popular modes of transportation.
In the past year, SickKids has seen a 40% increase in the number of patients admitted for e-scooter and e-bike related injuries. This is a significant jump from previous years, and it has raised concerns among healthcare professionals and parents alike.
Dr. Ronald Goldman, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at SickKids, expressed his concern over the trend. He stated that the injuries they are seeing are not minor, with many requiring surgery and prolonged hospital stays. He also noted that the majority of these injuries are preventable.
The most common injuries reported by SickKids include fractures, head injuries, and soft tissue injuries. These injuries can have long-term consequences and can significantly impact a child’s physical and mental well-being.
Experts believe that the rise in e-scooter and e-bike injuries is due to the increasing popularity of these modes of transportation, especially among young people. With the convenience and accessibility of these devices, many children and adolescents are using them without proper safety precautions.
In response to this concerning trend, SickKids is urging parents to educate their children on the importance of safety when using e-scooters and e-bikes. This includes wearing a helmet, following traffic rules, and avoiding distractions while riding.
The hospital is also calling for stricter regulations and enforcement of safety measures for e-scooters and e-bikes. They believe that this will help reduce the number of injuries and keep children safe.
In conclusion, the rise in e-scooter and e-bike related injuries at SickKids Hospital is a cause for concern. It is crucial for parents, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to work together to address this issue and ensure the safety of children and adolescents using these devices.
