Injury epidemiology in Iran: a systematic review

Abstract

Abstract:Background:Injuries are the second greatest cause of mortality in Iran. Information about the epidemiological pattern of injuries is effective in decision-making. In this regard, the aim of the current study is to elaborate on the epidemiology of injuries in Iran through a systematic review. Methods:Required data were collected searching the following key words and their Persian equivalents; trauma, injury, accident, epidemiology, prevalence, pattern, etiology, risk factors and Iran. The following databases were searched: Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, MagIran, Iranian scientific information database (SID) and Iran Medex. Some of the relevant journals and web sites were searched manually. The lists of references from the selected articles were also investigated. We have also searched the gray literature and consulted some experts. Results:Out of 2747 retrieved articles, 25 articles were finally included in the review. A total of 3234481 cases have been investigated. Mean (SD) age among these cases was 30 (17.4) years. The males comprised 75.7% of all the patients. Only 31.1% of patients were transferred to hospital by ambulance. The most common mechanism of injuries was road traffic accidents (50.1%) followed by falls (22.3%). In road traffic accidents, motorcyclists have accounted for the majority of victims (45%). Roads were the most common accident scene for the injuries (57.5%). The most common injuries were to the head and neck. (47.3%). The mean (SD) Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 8.1(8.6%). The overall case-fatality proportion was 3.8% and 75% of all the mortalities related to road traffic accidents. Conclusions:The main priorities in reducing the burden of injuries include: the young, male target group, improving pre-hospital and ambulance services, preventing road traffic accidents, improving road safety and the safety of motorcyclists (compulsory helmet use, safer vehicles, dedicated motorcycle lanes).

Comparing the Emergency Care of Iranian and Afghan Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…For example, a review study in Iran demonstrated that the mean age of people involved in traffic accidents was 30 years, and more than three-quarters of the patients were men. 19 Similar to their counterparts in most low-income countries (e.g., Afghanistan 20 ) and middle-income countries compared to high-income countries, Iranian men seem to be more vulnerable to injuries because of Iran’s specific socio-cultural conditions (more driving, more occupational threats, injuries from violence, and the like). 19 , 21 However, as people’s age increases, they are more likely to undergo more severe outcomes, such as hospitalization and death.…”

“… 19 Similar to their counterparts in most low-income countries (e.g., Afghanistan 20 ) and middle-income countries compared to high-income countries, Iranian men seem to be more vulnerable to injuries because of Iran’s specific socio-cultural conditions (more driving, more occupational threats, injuries from violence, and the like). 19 , 21 However, as people’s age increases, they are more likely to undergo more severe outcomes, such as hospitalization and death. The findings of a study in Taiwan revealed that, compared to other adults injured in traffic accidents, elderly trauma patients had higher injury severity, less favorable outcomes, and a higher rate of admission to the ICU.…”

“Current incidence of injuries in Iran; findings of STEPS survey 2021”

“…Moreover, it is essential to identify and target high-risk populations, such as individuals who engage in risky behaviors [ 5 ]. Even though Iran has a mandatory seatbelt and helmet legislation and alcohol consumption is prohibited by law, risky behaviors including drunk-driving, speeding, and refusing to wear helmets, seatbelts, and car seats for children continue to be risk factors for different injuries among Iranian people [ [5] , [6] , [7] ].…”

Prevalence of Vascular Trauma and Related Factors in Iran: A Systematic Review

“…As a result, the Mean±SD injury severity score was equal to 8.1±8.6; however, this study did not specifically examine vascular injuries. Only a few related studies were reviewed in this field [31]; thus, estimating the prevalence of trauma is essential for this group of patients [32,33].…”