A recent study has shown that there has been a rise in the number of eye injuries in children associated with non-powder guns such as BB guns, airsoft guns, paintball guns, and foam projectile blasters. The study, conducted by Alexandre Dentel and colleagues at the Rothschild Foundation Hospital in Paris, estimated the annual incidence and severity of non-powder gun-related injuries between January 2010 and June 2022. The team identified 304 patients who had consulted in an eye emergency department for ocular trauma associated with toy non-powder guns. They reported that there has been an increase in the incidence of these injuries between 2014 and 2022.
The researchers found that foam projectiles for non-powder guns were the most commonly used toys, used in 151 cases (50%), followed by BB guns or airsoft guns, paintball guns, and unspecified toys in 110, 31, and 12 cases, respectively. Meanwhile, the mean age of patients who suffered from foam projectile blaster-associated injuries was found to be decreasing. Over the study period, the mean patient age decreased from 16 years to 10 years.
The researchers also found that the injuries caused by foam projectile blasters were severe. During the study period, two open-globe injuries, 51 intraocular hemorrhages, three cataracts, 19 retinal injuries (including two retinal tears and one retinal detachment), 22 iris injuries, 12 cases of ocular hypertension, and 45 corneal lesions were reported.
To prevent accidents, the authors recommend that consumers pay attention to age labeling and use protective goggles while playing. Manufacturers, on the other hand, can promote the use of safety glasses to protect children’s eyes. This precautionary measure can help reduce the number of unintentional injuries caused by non-powder guns.
Non-powder gun-related injuries are a significant cause of childhood morbidity and require immediate medical attention. These injuries can result in critical visual function loss, including vision impairment and blindness. Injuries caused to children can be prevented by raising awareness of the risks associated with such toys. Parents should ensure that their children are aware of the risks associated with playing with toys such as foam projectile blasters, BB guns, airsoft guns, and paintball guns.
In conclusion, the incidence of eye injuries associated with non-powder guns seems to be on the rise among children, and the mean age of patients with foam projectile blaster-associated injuries is decreasing. These injuries can lead to severe visual impairment and blindness and need immediate medical attention. Children who play with non-powder guns must be made aware of the risks involved and be advised to use protective goggles while playing. Moreover, manufacturers should highlight the importance of safety goggles to prevent unintentional injuries.
