Prevalence of Idiopathic Scoliosis in
Thai Female Students Aged 11-13 Years
Affiliation :
Sombat Kunakornsawat MD*, Nut Popan MD**, Chaiwat Piyaskulkaew MD*, Pritsanai Pruttikul MD*,
Tinnakorn Pluemvitayaporn MD*, Piyabuth Kittithamvongs MD*
* Center of Excellence in Orthopedic, Lerdsin General Hospital,
Bangkok, Thailand
** Ranong Hospital, 11 Kamlang Sap, Khao Niwet, Mueang Ranong District, Ranong, Thailand
Background : Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common cause of abnormal curvature of the spine. Adolescent idiopathic
scoliosis is the most common subcategory of idiopathic scoliosis. Prevalence rates of idiopathic scoliosis vary from 0.35%
to 13%, depending on the defined Cobb angles, screening age, sex, regional and ethnic variations. Several professional
organizations recommend screening for scoliosis in schools. The screening age is 11-13 years for girls, which corresponds
to the ages of peak skeletal growth.
Objective : To study the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis in Thai female students aged 11-13 years.
Material and Method: Screening for scoliosis was performed in 1,818 Thai female students aged 11-13 years. Adam’s
forward bending test was performed. The scoliometer was used for measurement of curves noting the highest degree of
angle of trunk rotation (ATR). Those who exhibited ATR of 6 degrees or greater, would then be referred to Lerdsin General
Hospital for a standing whole spine radiographics. Idiopathic scoliosis in the present study was defined as students who
have a Cobb angle of greater than 10 degrees from whole spine radiographs and have no cause of scoliosis.
Results : eighty four girls had scoliosis (4.62%). The cause of scoliosis was found in 3 girls. Right thoracic curve was the
most common curve pattern.
Conclusion : The prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis in Thai female students aged 11-13 years was 4.46%.
Keywords : adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, AIS, prevalence, female
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