Slipped capital femoral epiphysis is most frequently observed in which demographic?

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a condition that typically occurs in adolescents and is characterized by the displacement of the femoral head due to slippage at the growth plate. This condition is most often seen in overweight boys, who are usually in their early to mid-teenage years. The increased body weight is thought to create additional stress on the hip joint, contributing to the risk of slippage.

In this demographic, factors such as hormonal changes, growth spurts, and the mechanical stresses associated with increased body mass may play significant roles in the development of SCFE. Boys are at a higher risk compared to girls, and overweight status has been consistently identified as a contributing factor. Understanding the typical demographic in which SCFE occurs helps healthcare providers in early diagnosis and treatment, as well as in informing preventive strategies for at-risk populations.