Severe scoliosis disproportionately affects adolescent girls

Data from the ‘Mapa de Salud con Perspectiva’ platform, developed by the Gaspar Casal Foundation and Organon, indicates that severe scoliosis disproportionately affects girls. Between the ages of 5 and 14, the rate of hospital admissions for spinal deformities is 2.6 times higher in girls than in boys.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most frequent cause of deformity in this age group, often appearing around age 10 during pubertal growth. While mild cases affect genders similarly, between 80% and 90% of severe cases requiring medical attention occur in girls. Because the condition often progresses silently without pain, early detection is critical. The use of a brace can prevent surgery in 72% of patients, compared to 48% of those who do not use one.

Medical specialists recommend monitoring for warning signs such as uneven shoulder height, asymmetrical hips, or back asymmetry. Additionally, school habits like poor posture, inadequate furniture, or heavy backpacks can contribute to back discomfort in students.