No influence of moon phases on emergency trauma admission

Abstract

Introduction:

The potential connection between lunar phases and human activities has fascinated scientists, medical professionals, and the general public. The present study evaluates the possible association between the moon phases and admissions to a major regional trauma hospital. Methods:

All patients admitted to the trauma emergency department from 2018 to 2024 were retrieved. The Astronomical Applications Department of the U.S. Navy website was accessed to retrieve data on the lunar cycle phases. A multiple linear model regression analysis using the Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient (r) was used to assess the association between the number of patients admitted to the emergency trauma department and the percentage of the moon illuminated. Results:

Data were collected from 53,594 patients (mean age was 36.0 ± 25.4 years); 45.4% (24,337 of 53,594) were women. There was no evidence of an association between the number of patients admitted to the trauma emergency department and moon phases (P = 0.1). Conclusion:

There is no statistically significant association between moon phases and the frequency of visits to the trauma emergency department.