FIVE-YEARS TRENDS IN INJURY HOSPITALISATION IN KAKHETI REGION, GEORGIA

Introduction: Injuries rank as one of the leading causes of death and long-term impairment globally. They frequently result in temporary or permanent disability, necessitating extended physical and mental health care as well as rehabilitation. The primary aim of research is to investigate and characterize the epidemiological features and 5 years trends of injuries (2018-2022) in the Kakheti region. There are no previous studies in this area. Methods: This research was a retrospective, descriptive study covered the period from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2022. The primary database for this research was obtained from the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health in Georgia (NCDC). Results: A total of 7,861 injury-related hospitalization cases were identified. Males comprised 59.8% (4,700) of patients, while females made up 40.2% (3,161). Patients' ages ranged from 0 to 104 years, with a median and mean age of 46 years. The most frequent age group was 65 and older, representing 29.5% (2,317) of cases, followed by the 25-44 age group at 22.9% (1,801). Falls were the most common mechanism of injury, accounting for 50.9% (4,001) of cases, followed by road traffic accidents at 23.8% (1,869). The head was the most commonly affected area, with 34% (2,674) of injuries. The average hospital stay was four days. Conclusions: This study provides crucial information about injury hospitalizations trends in 2028-2022 and epidemiological characteristics in the Kakheti region of Georgia. These findings help guide public health decisions and create targeted programs to prevent future injuries in Kakheti region.