EPIDEMIOLOGY OF TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES AND ASSOCIATED DISABILITIES

EPIDEMIOLOGY OF TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES AND ASSOCIATED DISABILITIES

1. INTRODUCTION Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a significant public health issue worldwide, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality rates. TBIs encompass a broad spectrum of head injuries resulting from external forces, ranging from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain damage. Globally, TBIs are a leading cause of disability and death, particularly among young adults and working age populations. The economic and social burden of TBIs is immense, encompassing healthcare costs, lost productivity and long term disability management. Okada riders are prevalent in many urban areas, including Owerri , Imo State. These riders face unique occupational hazards due to the exposure to road traffic accidents, environmental pollutants and adverse weather conditions

2. Aim of the study The aim of this study is to investigate the epidemiology of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and the associated disabilities among Okada riders in Owerri , Imo State. Objectives of the study Assess the frequency and incidence rates of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) among Okada riders in Owerri , Imo State, over a defined period. Investigate the patterns and characteristics of TBIs, including severity levels, causes, and specific injury profiles among Okada riders. Identify and analyze the contributing factors and risk elements associated with traumatic brain injuries, such as helmet usage, adherence to traffic regulations, and environmental conditions. Examine the short-term and long-term consequences of TBIs by assessing associated disabilities among Okada riders, including cognitive, physical, and socio-economic implications. Investigate the unique urban dynamics of Owerri , focusing on how factors such as traffic congestion and road conditions contribute to the occurrence of traumatic brain injuries among Okada riders.

3. Overview of TBIs Traumatic Brain Imjuries (TBIs) constitute a significant global health concern, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality rates across various age groups. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), TBIs are responsible for millions of deaths and disabilities annually, making them a pressing public health issue. Okada Riding: Prevalence in Owerri , Imo State Due to factors such as traffic congestion and limited public transportation options, Okada riders are ubiquitous on the streets of Owerri . The prevalence of Okada riding as a means of transportation underscores the importance of studying TBIs within this population. Understanding the intersection between TBIs and the significant role of Okada riders in Owerri’s transportation system is crucial for developing targeted interventions and policies aimed at reducing the burden of TBIs and associated disabilities in the region. This background sets the stage for investigating the epidemiology of TBIs among Okada riders and exploring the implications for public health initiatives and road safety strategies.

4. Research Methodology Research Design This study adopts a cross-sectional research design to capture a snapshot of the prevalence and characteristics of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) among Okada riders in Owerri . The cross-sectional approach allows for the examination of both current injury status and associated disabilities, providing valuable insights into the immediate and lingering effects of TBIs. Study Area Owerri , located in the southeastern region of Nigeria, serves as the capital of Imo State and lies within the Igboland . This urban area covers approximately 100 square kilometers (40 sq. mi) and is home to a population of around 1,401,873 individuals as of 2016. Owerri experiences two major seasons, the rainy season typically observed between April and September, and the dry season usually observed between October and March. The city is inhabited by a diverse population, including office workers, civil servants, business people, police officers, students, and transporters. Sampling Strategy The sampling strategy employs a purposive sampling technique to ensure representation of Okada riders from diverse locations within Owerri . Participants will be selected based on their occupation as Okada riders and willingness to participate in the study, considering factors such as age, experience, and frequency of helmet usage.

5. Demographic Characteristics This study was carried out to assess the epidemiology of traumatic brain injuries and associated disabilities among Okada riders in Owerri , Imo State. There were two hundred (200) participants for this study. The highest proportion fell within the 26-35 years category, constituting 80(40%) of the sample, followed by 18-25 years constituting 60(30%), 36-45 years constituting 40(20%), and 46+ years constituting 20(10%). Findings showed that the majority were male 190(95%) compared to females 10(5%). There were 120 non-married participants and 70 married participants with more participants of Christians (65%) compared to the Islam religion (25%). It was also gathered 10(5%) had no formal education and 50(25%) participants had only primary education, however there were 40 participants who had tertiary education among the respondents. Ethnicity of participants was determined to be predominately Igbo (70%) followed by the Hausa (20%). Half of the participants resided in Owerri Municipal 100 (50%) followed by Owerri North 40 (20%), Owerri West 30(15%), Owerri South 20(10%), and other LGAs 10(5%). Regarding experience as Okada riders, half had 1-5 years of experience 100(50%), followed by 6-10 years 60 (30%), 11-15 years 30(15%), and 16+ years 10 (5%). RESULTS

6. Fig. 1: Age distribution of the participants

7. Prevalence and Incidence of TBIs Prevalence: 15% of surveyed Okada riders experienced TBIs Incidence: 15% new cases of TBIs reported during the study period Majority of TBIs were mild (60%), followed by moderate (25%) and severe (15%) cases. Common causes: Motor vehicle accidents, falls, collisions. Patterns and Characteristics of TBIs Consequences of TBIs Short-term consequences: Headaches (25%), Dizziness (20%), loss of consciousness (15%) Long-term consequences: Cognitive impairments (40%), emotional disturbances (25%), physical disabilities (20%)

8. Discussion The study provides valuable insights into the prevalence, incidence, patterns and consequences of traumatic brain injuries(TBIs) among Okada riders in Owerri , Imo State Environmental factors such as poor road conditions and high traffic density, as well as behavioural factors like non-compliance with safety practices, contribute to the occurrence and severity of TBIs Associated disabilities, including motor impairments, cognitive deficits and psychosocial challenges, further highlight the multifaceted nature of TBIs among the population The Findings underscore the need for comprehensive interventions and policies to prevent and reduce TBIs, improve road safety, and enhance access to healthcare services. The study concludes that TBIs represent a significant public health burden among Okada riders in Owerri , Imo State with implications for individuals’ health and well being Addressing environmental and behavioral factors is essential for effective TBI prevention and management strategies Collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, community organizations, and Okada rider associations are necessary to implement evidence-based interventions and policy Conclusion

9. References Rehman T, Ali R, Tawil I, Yonas H (2008). Rapid progression of traumatic bifrontal contusions to transtentorial herniation : A case report. Cases Journal. 1 (1 ): 203 Alves OL, Bullock R (2001). Excitotoxic damage in traumatic brain injury. In Clark RS, Kochanek P (eds.). Brain injury. Boston: Kluwer Academic Publishers. p. 1. ISBN 978-0-7923-7532-6. Rao V, Lyketsos C (2000). Neuropsychiatric sequelae of traumatic brain injury. Psychosomatics . 41 (2): 95–103. Maas AI, Stocchetti N, Bullock R (2008). Moderate and severe traumatic brain injury in adults. The Lancet. Neurology . 7 (8): 728–741. Parikh S, Koch M, Narayan RK (2007). Traumatic brain injury . International Anesthesiology Clinics. 45 (3): 119–135. Chapman SB, Levin HS, Lawyer SL (2012). Communication problems resulting from brain injury in children: Special issues of assessment and management. In McDonald S, Togher L, Code C (eds.). Communication Disorders Following Traumatic Brain Injury. East Sussex: Psychology Press. pp. 235–36. ISBN 978-0-86377-724-0.