Low Road Safety Measure Utilisation Among Traumatic Brain Injury Patients in Ghana

Research findings from a study at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital have highlighted the suboptimal road safety measure utilisation among traumatic brain injury patients in Ghana. The study, which prospectively analyzed cases between March 2019 and April 2020, found that road safety measure utilisation was generally low, with the highest usage rate among drivers. The study's findings have significant implications for reducing the burden of traumatic brain injuries and improving road safety in Ghana.

Key Takeaways:

• The study prospectively analyzed 164 participants, with a male preponderance (73.8%) and a mean age of 33.2 ± 18.4 years.
• Road safety measure utilisation was generally low, with a rate of 20.1%, and the highest usage rate among drivers (30%).
• The observed mortality rate was 11.6%, with 75% (14/19) of deaths occurring in individuals who did not use safety measures.
• All motorcycle-related fatalities were associated with non-helmet use.
• The study highlights the need for raising awareness, enforcement, and evidence-based strategies to reduce the burden of traumatic brain injuries and improve road safety.

Statistics:

• The study enrolled 164 participants, with a male preponderance (73.8%).
• The mean age of participants was 33.2 ± 18.4 years.
• Road safety measure utilisation rate was 20.1%.
• The highest usage rate was among drivers (30%).
• The observed mortality rate was 11.6%.
• 75% (14/19) of deaths occurred in individuals who did not use safety measures.

Sources:

• Utilisation of road safety measures among traumatic brain injury patients in Ghana: a single-centre prospective study on road user compliance. Egyptian Journal of Neurosurgery (2025,40(1):1-7).
• do-i.org/10.1186/s41984-025-00448-z.