Prevalence and associated factors for femoral shaft fractures among motor traffic accident victims in southern Tanzania

Introduction: Femoral shaft fractures are a significant health issue in low- and middle-income countries, especially among victims of motor traffic accidents. The World Health Organization reported 1.2 million deaths from motor vehicle collisions in 2018. This study aimed to determine FSF prevalence and associated factors in Southern Tanzania to guide interventions. Methods: A retrospective, health facility-based cross-sectional study was used to analyze data from 01/01/23 to 31/12/23, including 154 patients admitted to five referral hospitals in Southern Tanzania following motor traffic accidents. Results: The median age was 31.5 years (IQR: 22–49), with 76% (117/154) being male and 57.1% (88/154) married. Most participants were self-employed (63.0%, 97/154), 37.0% (57/154) were young adults (18–34 years), and 55.8% (86/154) had primary education. The prevalence of femoral shaft fractures was 37.7% (58/154), with the majority of them, 93.1% (54/58), being closed fractures. Head injuries were the most common associated injury (28.6%, 44/154). In addition, being a young adult (aged 18-34 years old) (aPOR=5.92, 95% CI: 1.39-25.18, p=0.016), Male (aPOR=3.34, 95% CI: 1.20-9.33, p=0.021), and at the dry season of the year (aPOR=3.11, 95% CI: 1.33-7.30, p=0.009), were factors independently associated with Femoral Shaft Fractures among Motor Traffic Accidents Victims in Southern Tanzania. Conclusion: There is a notably high prevalence of femoral shaft fractures in Southern Tanzania, which disproportionately affects young adult males. These fractures complicate trauma management and highlight the need for prompt interventions. Factors associated with Femoral Shaft fractures include age, gender, and seasonal variations. Comprehensive trauma care systems and preventive measures are crucial to reduce the burden of femoral shaft fractures in Southern Tanzania and beyond.