Traffic injury deaths in West Azarbaijan province of Iran: a cross-sectional interview-based study on victims' characteristics and pre-hospital care

Int J Inj Contr Saf Promot. 2009 Sep;16(3):119-26. doi: 10.1080/17457300903023980.

Abstract

This study highlights the socio-demographics and death circumstances of victims of fatal road traffic injuries (RTIs) in one Iranian province. A representative sample of cases was selected from a national register and interviews were conducted with the victims' family members. The study shows that there is a strong association between victim attributes (e.g. sex, age, occupation, education or marital status) and category of road-user. Although men are over-represented in all categories, women die above all as car passengers or pedestrians. Deaths of vulnerable road-users are more frequent among the younger and older age groups. Two-thirds of all deaths occurred before arrival at the hospital and 11% of the victims received ambulance transport. The patterns of fatal RTIs observed in the province differ somewhat from the rest of Iran and other low- and middle-income countries. Not only pre- but also post-crash counter-measures could help save lives in the region.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Traffic / mortality*
  • Accidents, Traffic / prevention & control
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Emergency Medical Services*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Iran / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Vehicles / classification
  • Young Adult