Journal of Medical - Clinical Research & Reviews
Open AccessThe Trends and Projections of Head Injuries at Sunyani Teaching Hospital, Ghana, West Africa: A 3-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Emmanuel Sackey, Herbert Alemiya Asakiya, Alexander Kofi Egote, Bevelyn Ghartey, Cardinal Newton, Kwame Adu Okyere Boadu.
Abstract
Introduction: Head injuries are a major public health problem with high morbidity and mortality. Sunyani Teaching Hospital is a major referral hospital in the Bono Region, making it an ideal location to study head injury trends and treatment outcomes. The study retrospectively analysed cases of head injuries from 2022 to 2024, examining demographic patterns, etiological factors, and anticipated future trends.
Objective: The study aims to examine and predict trends of head injuries at Sunyani Teaching Hospital and identify factors such as the leading causes, types of injury, and treatment outcomes. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive design was employed, utilising patient records from the accident and emergency department. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences was used for analysis in comparison of demographic profiles, causes, results of treatment, and trends, with 2025 and 2026 projections forecasted by using forecasting formulas. Ethical permission was gained, and confidentiality was maintained.
Results: Among the 114 cases carefully selected, 84.2% were male and had a mean age of 33 years. The age group most impacted was 21–30 years (36.8%). The leading cause was road traffic accidents (74.6%), followed by falls (11.4%) and assault (7.9%). The most common type of injury was laceration (59.7%), and intracranial fracture was rare (0.9%). Discharges were 81.6%, referral was 11.4%, and death was 5.3%. Data indicated a rising trend in cases, with projections indicating more increases in 2025 and 2026, particularly in May, August, and the last quarter.
Conclusion: The study documented a rising incidence of head injuries among young males, disproportionately caused by road traffic accidents. Upgrading road safety measures, public awareness, injury prevention measures, and trauma care facilities must be done to help contain and reverse this trend. Policymakers need to consider demographic susceptibilities in resource allocation and preventive interventions.
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