Tractor-related injuries: a population-based study of a five-state region in the Midwest.

BACKGROUND Tractor-related injuries are among the most severe of agricultural injuries. This study identifies the incidence, consequences, and potential risk factors for tractor injuries among 3,765 agricultural households in a five-state region. METHODS Demographic, injury, and exposure data were collected for two 6-month recall periods in 1999 using computer assisted telephone interviews. A causal model served as a basis for survey design, data analysis, and interpretation of results; associated directed acyclic graphs guided development of multivariate models. RESULTS The overall injury rate was 9.6 events per 1,000 persons per year. Increased personal risk was observed for males and prior agricultural injury experience. Compared with ages 35-44, decreased risks were identified for those less than 5, 5-9, 10-14, 15-19, and 20-24. CONCLUSIONS Risk of tractor injury among agricultural household members varied by gender, age, and prior injury experience. .

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