Screening for Acquired Spinal Deformities among Secondary School Students in Jizan City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Aim of Study: To determine the prevalence and types of spinal deformities among male secondary school students in Jizan City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Subjects and Methods: Following a systematic random sample, 717 male secondary school students in Jizan City were interviewed and screened for presence of spinal deformities. A data collection sheet was constructed by the researchers which included variables related to personal characteristics of student, whether he is used to carry heavy bags and the results of screening for spinal deformities by applying the Plumb line and Adams forward bending tests. Results: Prevalence of spinal deformities among male secondary school students in Jizan City was 21.3%. Prevalence of kyphosis was higher than scoliosis (16% and 5.3%, respec-tively). Prevalence rates were almost equal according to students age group and students scholastic year. However, it was higher among students who were used to carry heavy bags than those who were not (32.3% and 14.1%, respectively, p 0.001). Conclusions: Prevalence of acquired spinal deformities among male secondary school students in Jizan City is high. The most common type is kyphosis. The main reason for spinal deformities was the frequent carrying of unduly heavy bags. Recommendations: Students should be advised against carrying heavy bags. Proper attention should be paid to daily classes of physical exercise at school. Teachers and school health workers should observe students for proper posture and any student with slight spinal deviation should be referred to the primary health care physician.