Epidemiology of Trauma in the Elderly in Iran; [اپیدمیولوژی تروما در سالمندان ایرا ن] Publisher



Rahimi H ; Asgari F ; Fakharian E ; Salamati P ; Sehat M ; Fazel MR ; Mahdian M ; Abedzadehkalahroudi M ; Sarbandi F ; Farmanfarma KK
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2026

Abstract

Background: Geriatric trauma, commonly defined as trauma affecting individuals aged 65 and older, is a newly emerging global issue. The current study was conducted to examine the epidemiology of trauma in elderly Iranians. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted using data recorded in the Iranian National Trauma Registry system. Information on individuals aged 60 and older during the years 2015-2021 was selected and collected based on a checklist designed by the Tehran Sinai Research Center in collaboration with member centers of the Iranian National Trauma Registry program. Findings: The present study included a total of 7,566 elderly participants, with a mean age of 73.15 ± 9.45 years. 55.4% of the patients were male, and 97% were Iranian elderly individuals. 75.1% of the patients were married, and over 50% were illiterate. In terms of data distribution, Tabriz, Kashan, and Tehran had the highest recorded cases in order (26.6, 19.9, 14.4). Significant statistical relationships were observed between different years under study with age, education, and gender distribution of patients. The most common cause of trauma in the elderly was related to falls (60%) and road traffic accidents (30%). Among traffic accidents, pedestrians and motorcyclists accounted for the highest number of injuries at 12.2% and 6.6% respectively. In terms of the location of the incidents, over 50% of cases occurred at home. Conclusion: Given the upward trend of the elderly population in Iran, comprehensive community planning for controlling and preventing injuries and disabilities in this age group is essential as a fundamental public health issue. © 2025, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.