The burden of road traffic injuries in developing countries: the 1st national injury survey of Pakistan

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the burden of road traffic injuries in Pakistan-a developing country in South Asia.

Methods: A nationally representative household interview survey, to measure the burden of all injuries for all ages and in both genders using a three-month recall period.

Results: The overall incidence of injury events was 41 (CI: 39.2-43.8) per 1000 per year and for road traffic injuries 15 (CI: 13.7-16.5) per 1000 per year. The relative risk for road traffic injuries was found to be higher in males, those 16-45 years old, and those in the professional category of laborers and vendors.

Conclusions: This first national survey reflects the growing impact of injuries, especially road traffic injuries in Pakistan and portends a challenge for the national health system.