Citation

Kool B, Chelimo C, Ameratunga SN. Neuroepidemiology 2013; 41(3-4): 189-197.

Affiliation

Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Karger Publishers)

DOI

10.1159/000354782

PMID

24135664

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Although reducing the burden of head injuries is an important focus of several injury prevention initiatives, they remain a large proportion of injury-related deaths. In New Zealand, trends over time and the socio-economic distribution of the cause-specific incidence of head injuries have received little attention.

METHODS: We analyzed primary hospitalizations (2000-2009) and deaths (1999-2008) due to head injury using national mortality and hospital discharge databases, specifically exploring variations in age-specific rates by major causes over time and by socio-economic deprivation. Population-based incidence rate estimates were calculated using census denominators.

RESULTS: Children aged <5 years and adults aged ≥65 years had the highest rates of hospitalization and mortality, respectively. Transport-related incidents and falls were the leading causes, with most fatal injuries occurring on roads and most hospitalized injuries occurring at home. There was a significant increase in mortality rates among older adults over the decade, and in most age groups, mortality rates increased with increasing levels of socio-economic deprivation.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this review alongside the significant risks of premature death and disability reinforce the need to explore policies that address the specific causes as well as socio-economic inequalities in their distribution in New Zealand. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Language: en