Comprehensive Epidemiological Assessment of Trauma Incidents: A Study of 16,585 Patients at a Level I Trauma Center in Lanzhou City, Northwestern China

Objective Analyzing the epidemiological characteristics of trauma patients admitted to a Level I Trauma Center in Lanzhou City, Northwestern China, to provide theoretical references for improving the quality of trauma care. Methods A retrospective analysis of clinical data from 16,585 trauma patients treated at the First Hospital of Lanzhou University's trauma center from November 1, 2021, to October 31, 2023, was conducted. Data including age, gender, time of trauma, cause of trauma, and major injured body parts were statistically analyzed. Results During the period from November 1, 2021, to October 31, 2023, a total of 18,235 patients were admitted, with complete data for 16,585 cases. Of these, 9,793 were male and 6,792 were female, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.44:1. The peak times for trauma occurrence were 10–12 AM and 6–10 PM, and the peak months were from May to October. The leading causes of trauma were Falls (45.32%), Other trauma (15.88%), Road Traffic Accidents (15.15%), Violence (10.82%), Cutting/stabbing (9.41%), Mechanical injuries (2.65%), Winter sports injuries (0.36%), Animal bites (0.22%), Burns (0.09%), and Electrical injuries (0.02%). The distribution of major injured body parts showed statistical significance, with limbs/skin being the most affected, followed by the head/neck, chest/abdomen, and back. Conclusions Trauma is more common in middle-aged and young individuals, with a higher incidence in males than females. Falls is the leading cause of trauma. Medical institutions and government agencies can implement corresponding preventive measures and policies based on the characteristics of trauma to enhance the quality and level of trauma care.