Using Weather, Lunar Cycles, and Time of Year to Predict Trauma Incidents in an Urban, Level i Pediatric Trauma Center

Abstract

Background: Trauma patterns in adults are influenced by weather conditions, lunar phases, and time of year. The extent to which these factors contribute to pediatric trauma is unclear. Objective: The present study aimed to review patients from a single Level I pediatric trauma center to determine the influence of weather, the lunar cycle, and time of year on trauma activity. Methods: A retrospective review of trauma activations (n = 1,932) was conducted from 2015 to 2017. Injury type and general demographics were collected. Weather data and lunar cycles were derived from historical databases. Results: Days with no precipitation increased the total number of injuries of all types compared with those with precipitation (p