The epidemiology of trauma patients presenting to a large urban public hospital trauma centre in South Africa

Background: Trauma is a significant public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including South Africa, where it contributes to substantial morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. Accurate data on trauma epidemiology is crucial for informing prevention and care strategies. Purpose: This study aimed to describe the epidemiology of trauma patients presenting to one of the largest tertiary care public hospitals in Johannesburg, South Africa, focusing on injury patterns and outcomes. Methods: This retrospective observational study analysed data from the hospital's trauma registry for patients presenting between January 2022 and June 2022. Data collected included demographics, injury mechanisms, and outcomes (admission to ward, ICU, theatre, discharge, death). Results: A total of 377 trauma patients were included in the study. The majority were adult males (79.84% adults, 83.82% males). The most common injury patterns were stabbing (32.63%), gunshot wounds (14.59%), and assaults (13.53%). No significant association was found between patient demographics (sex and age group) and outcome. Conclusion: This study confirms the significant burden of trauma in a large urban centre in South Africa, particularly among young adult males, with interpersonal violence being a major contributing factor. The high prevalence of violence-related injuries underscores the importance of implementing and strengthening public health interventions aimed at preventing violence.