Morbidity and mortality pattern among commercial motorcyclists in Osogbo Metropolis in South Western Nigeria

Introduction: Motorcycle accidents occur frequently in this part of the world as a result of interface between the agent, the host and its environment resulting in fatal consequences. The objective of this study is to assess mortality and morbidity pattern accrued to road traffic accidents from commercial motorcycles in Osogbo metropolis in south western Nigeria. Methods: This is a retrospective, analytical study of morbidity and mortality pattern among commercial motorcycle riders managed at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital in Osogbo in southwestern Nigeria. Case notes of one hundred and eleven commercial motorcyclists who had road traffic accident between May 2002 and April 2005 were reviewed for mortality and morbidity related data. These secondary data was analyzed using the EPI Info software. Results: Mean age of the commercial motorcyclists was 33.3(+1.4) years and all were males. Fifty-six (50.4%) were married, 48(43.2%) had below secondary level education while 42(37.8%) were strictly commercial and professional motorcyclists. A total of 12 (10.8%) of victims eventually died while 99 (89.2%) remained alive. Among survivors, 32 (32.4%) were deformed while 67 (67.6%) were not. Pattern of injuries sustained by victims include limb fracture 63(56.8%); head injury 48 (43.2%), bruises 48 (43.2%), loss of consciousness 36(32.4), limb dislocations in 5(4.5%) while 3(2.7%) sustained spinal cord injuries. Conclusions: Morbidities and mortalities associated with motorcycle road traffic accidents are common. There is a need for all concerned stakeholders to take adequate steps towards reduction and prevention of occurrences or mortality and morbidity among this group. [J Contemp Med 2012; 2(1.000): 13-16