Health Risks Of Heavy Backpacks

Parents are you aware of, or informed about the health risks of backpacks? 

According to a study a significant number of school-age children carry backpacks too heavy for them. The excess weight can cause permanent damage.  Many of these children suffer back pains, scoliosis or even curvature of the spine.

Experts say that backpacks should not exceed 10% of a child's body weight. The study  found that 76% of children carry backpacks in excess of 10% of their body weight,  while 20% carry in excess of  15%,

The study involved 1,403 students between the ages of 12 an 17 from eleven schools in Northwestern Spain.

According to the report in the thespec.com, about 26 per cent reported experiencing back pain for more than 15 days during the previous year and 70 per cent were diagnosed with scoliosis or curvature of the spine.

Click here to read about the report in more detail.