The Hidden Epidemic: Unveiling Associated Injuries Among Motor Traffic Accident Victims in Southern Tanzania

Background Femoral shaft fractures (FSFs) represent a significant health burden in low- and middle-income countries, particularly among victims of motor traffic accidents (MTAs). The World Health Organization's 2018 report indicated that approximately 1.2 million deaths were attributed to motor vehicle collisions. Despite the rising incidence of MTAs in Tanzania, the current prevalence of FSFs remains unclear. We aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors for FSFs among MTA victims in Southern Tanzania to guide interventions. Methods and findings A retrospective, quantitative, health facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data from January to December 2023. The study included patients admitted to five referral hospitals in Southern Tanzania. Data were analyzed using Stata® Version 15.1, with associations tested through Chi-square, bivariable, and multivariable logistic regression. One hundred and fifty-four (n = 154) patients who experienced MTAs from the selected five referral hospitals in Southern Tanzania were included in this study. The median age of the study participants was 31.5 years (IQR: 22–49). The majority of patients were male (76%, 117/154) and 57.1% (88/154) were married. The majority (63.0%, 97/154) of patients were self-employed, 37.0% (57/154) were young adults (aged 18–34 years) and 55.8% (86/154) attained primary level of education. Prevalence of FSFs was 37.7%, 58/154), and the most injuries (84.9%, 90/160) were closed fractures. Head injuries was the most common associated injury (28.6%, 44/154). In addition, being a young adult (aged 18–34 years old) (aOR = 5.92, 95% CI: 1.39–25.18, p  = 0.016), Male (aOR = 3.34, 95% CI: 1.20–9.33, p  = 0.021), and at the summer season of the year (aOR = 3.11, 95% CI: 1.33–7.30, p  = 0.009), were factors independently associated with Femoral Shaft Fractures among People Experienced MTAs in the Southern Tanzania from January to December 2023. Conclusions Femoral shaft fractures (FSFs) are a significant public health burden among motor traffic accident (MTA) victims in Southern Tanzania, with young adult males disproportionately affected. Mid-shaft fractures and associated head injuries complicate trauma management, emphasizing the need for enhanced healthcare strategies. The high prevalence of FSFs underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions, particularly for young males, and highlights the influence of age, gender, and seasonal variations in accident occurrences. Comprehensive trauma care systems and preventive measures are essential to reduce the incidence of road traffic accidents and their resulting injuries in the region.