Author/Authors :
Dhaffala, A Walter Sisulu University - Department of Surgery, South Africa , Longo-Mbenza, B Walter Sisulu University - Faculty of Health Sciences, South Africa , Kingu, JH Walter Sisulu University - Department of Surgery, South Africa , Peden, M World Health Organization, Switzerland , Kafuko-Bwoye, A Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital - Department of Surgery, South Africa , Clarke, M Howard University, USA , Mazwai, EL Walter Sisulu University - Department of Surgery, South Africa
Abstract :
Objective: To determine the magnitude, socio-demographic and epidemiological characteristics of injury at a Provincial referral hospital. Methods: This review was conducted on all trauma patients admitted at the Mthatha Hospital Complex and Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital from the 1st January 1997 to the 31st December 2000. Results: The incident rate of injuries was 3.2% (n=2460/75,833 total admissions). Injured patients were mostly black (80%) and males (ratio: 5 men: 1 woman). Only 8.1% of injured patients were transported to hospital by ambulances. The leading causes of injuries were inter-personal violence accounting for 60% of cases, and motor vehicle accidents accounting for 19%; of them 38% were due to poor visibility, over speeding, and fatigue. The overall mortality was 33% (n=821) independently predicted by poverty (OR=8.2 95%CI 6-11.1; P 0.0001) and age 40 years(OR=7.8 95%CI 7.7-12.1;P 0.0001). Conclusion: The burden of injury is a mass issue that warrants regional attention with quality of care and training.
Keywords :
Injuries , violence , poverty , mortality , South Africa.
