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. .