Magnet ingestion in children in the United Kingdom: a national prospective observational surveillance study.
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Authors
Neville J.J.
Lyttle M.D.
Messahel S.
Parkar S.
Mytton J.
Hall N.J.
Brooker H.
Varnam R.
PuttWillis D.
Smith M.
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Issue Date
2025
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Article
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Abstract
Objective Magnet ingestion in children and young people (CYP) is associated with significant harm. We aimed to describe the incidence, circumstances and outcomes of magnet ingestion in CYP in the United Kingdom (UK). Design Prospective multicentre observational surveillance study. Setting UK secondary and tertiary level hospitals in urban and rural settings. Patients CYP =1 magnet. Interventions Data were collected regarding demographics, circumstances surrounding ingestion, clinical features and management. The primary outcome was the incidence of magnet ingestion in the UK. Results Between 1 May 2022 and 30 April 2023, 366 cases of magnet ingestion were recorded, of which 314 met eligibility (median age 8.7 years (IQR 5.1-12.0)). The incidence of magnet ingestion in the UK was at least 2.4/100 000 (95% CI 2.2 to 2.7) CYP per year. CYP sourced magnets from toys (38%), and magnet products were predominantly purchased by parents or caregivers (19%). Magnet-related injuries occurred in 23 (7%) cases, and surgery was undertaken in 32 (10%). Single magnet ingestions did not cause magnet-related injury. Swallowing greater numbers of magnets associated with an increased risk of injury (OR 1.1 (95% CI 1.0 to 1.2), p=0.002). CYP were asymptomatic in 75% of cases, but clinical features on presentation were associated with an increased risk of injury (OR 3.8 (95% CI 1.4 to 10.3), p=0.008). Conclusions While magnet ingestion in children is uncommon, ingestion of multiple magnets can cause injuries requiring surgery. Greater public and clinician awareness of the associated risks is warranted. This study can inform public health interventions and evidence-based guidelines. Copyright © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2025.
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Journal
Archives of Disease in Childhood
Volume
110
Issue
10