A decade of road traffic mortality in northeastern Iran: An epidemiological analysis from 2013 to 2023

Ghasemi, Khadijeh; Mosafarkhani, Ehsan

doi:10.48307/atr.2025.544471.1269

A decade of road traffic mortality in northeastern Iran: An epidemiological analysis from 2013 to 2023

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Khadijeh Ghasemi ¹

Ehsan Mosafarkhani ²

¹ Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

² Department of Epidemiology, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran AND Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

10.48307/atr.2025.544471.1269

Abstract

Background: Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In Iran, RTIs remain a significant public health challenge, especially in provinces such as Khorasan Razavi. Understanding the trends and patterns of RTI mortality is essential for developing effective public health strategies and interventions.
Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to analyze the temporal trends in road traffic-related mortality in Khorasan Razavi Province over an 11-year period (2013–2023) and identify demographic groups most at risk.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study used mortality data from the Mashhad University of Medical Sciences registry, which records all RTI-related deaths. We calculated crude and age-specific mortality rates, analyzed the temporal trends, and computed Years of Potential Life Lost (YPLL) to estimate the societal impact of premature deaths.
Results: A total of 10,308 RTI-related deaths were recorded. The Cause-Specific Mortality Rate (CSMR) declined by 33.96%, from 27.31 per 100,000 in 2013 to 18.04 per 100,000 in 2023. Young adults (15–24 years) and the elderly (≥70 years) were the most vulnerable groups, with pedestrian fatalities remaining the leading cause of death. Additionally, bicycle and light vehicle-related fatalities saw a significant increase. The YPLL was highest among younger individuals, indicating the long-term societal cost of these deaths.
Conclusion: Although the overall mortality rate from road traffic accidents has decreased, RTIs continue to pose a significant public health issue in Khorasan Razavi Province. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions for vulnerable groups, including youth, the elderly, and pedestrians, as well as improvements in infrastructure and road safety measures.

Keywords

Road traffic injuries

Mortality trends

Epidemiological surveillance

Iran

Khorasan Razavi

Years of Potential Life Lost

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