ΟΑ2049. Long-term consequences resulting from road traffic crashes: A literature review

Abstract Background The considerable number of road traffic crashes (RTCs) resulting in death, disability or injury renders road safety a crucial issue worldwide. Nevertheless, the majority of available literature is focused on the pre-RTC factors (e.g., risk prevention) rather than on the period following the accident (e.g., time to recovery, return to work). As a result, little is known about the psycho-social and physical burden of the post-RTC period. Therefore, the aim of the present research is to summarize the relevant knowledge on the predictors of long-term health consequences of the road traffic accidents through a literature review. Methods Long-term consequences (LTCs), physical and mental health, quality of life, road traffic crash were the keywords used to search the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science electronic databases. Results Starting from 420 papers (390 after duplicate removal), and following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, 50 studies were recorded as relevant. After the full-text screening, 16 were excluded. As a result, 34 articles were included in the review. These ones were observational studies, published between 2010 and 2024, investigating the physical and mental long-term consequences of road accidents on any type of adult road users. Participants’ LTCs were assessed at baseline and at follow-up periods under different components, connected, for instance, with health-related quality of life (HRQoL), recovery, and return to work. Conclusion The available literature on the topic is heterogeneous with regard to aims and tools used for assessment; the evaluation of the available studies, alongside possible implications, suggestions, and directions for future research was discussed. Key messages • Post-crash health consequences are under-investigated; this literature review highlights predictors of long-term physical and mental health in adult road users. • Long-term consequences (LTCs) vary widely after RTCs. More consistent research is needed to better understand and address post-accident impacts on quality of life. Topic Road safety, long-term consequences, road traffic crashes.