The Epidemiology of Trauma in Golestan Province, Northeast Iran

Introduction: Trauma is one of the most common health problems worldwide, resulting in many cases of physical disability every year. Considering the importance of the occurrence of trauma, this study was conducted to determine its epidemiology in trauma patients of the Trauma Center of Gorgan County, Golestan Province.Methods: This cross-sectional population-based study was conducted on 17,941 Iranian trauma patients who attended the Trauma Center of 5 Azar Educational Hospital, Gorgan County, from the beginning of 2013 through 2014, using the census method. The patients’ data were collected using a checklist designed by the Treatment Deputy of Golestan University of Medical Sciences during morning, evening, and night shifts by trained personnel. The data were analyzed with the STATA software Version 12.Results: Most of the trauma patients were male and belonged to the age group of 21–35 years. Alley, street, and house were the most common trauma locations. Injuries, motorcycle accidents, and falls from height were the most common types of trauma. As for the outcome, most trauma patients were ―treated.‖Conclusion: With advances in technology, because of the increase in the number and speed of vehicles and lifestyle changes, trauma is one of the major causes of mortality and disability in the world. Knowledge of the epidemiology of trauma in the world can help lower its prevalence and incidence.