Dr. Kyoko Yoshioka-Maeda, PhD, RN, PHN Associate Professor in Department of Community Healthy Nursing
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a crucial factor in children’s walking disabilities, and early detection is crucial. Associate Professor Yoshioka’s research team conducted a nationwide survey to understand the current situation of DDH screening for newborns and infants in Japan. Among 1737 municipalities, 436 responded (response rate: 25.1%). Most municipalities conducted hip screening within four months (97.5%), with approximately 60% conducting it during newborn home visits. Only 2.3% performed hip ultrasound screenings. The study suggests the importance of developing educational programs on DDH for nursing professionals and caregivers, as well as effective hip screening systems rooted in the community to prevent delays DDH cases.
Access the full paper here: https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep13040121