The Epidemiology of Traffic Accidents in the Kaffrine Region of Senegal: A Retrospective Study between 2014 and 2020

Introduction: Traffic accidents are a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries, with particularly high morbidity and mortality rates in sub-Saharan Africa. In Senegal, the Kaffrine region is one of the areas most severely affected. This study aims to describe the epidemiological profile of traffic accidents in the Kaffrine region. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study of traffic accidents recorded in the Kaffrine region between 2014 and 2020. Data were collected from reports by firefighters and police officers, as well as from the region’s health service records. Results: Men accounted for the majority of victims, particularly drivers aged 30 to 40. The analysis showed a gradual increase in the number of accidents, from 113 cases in 2014 to 201 cases in 2020. Seriously injured people accounted for 45% of victims, and the fatality rate reached 11%. A higher frequency of accidents was observed in the early afternoon and early evening. Conclusion: Traffic accidents in the Kaffrine region mainly affect men of working age, resulting in a significant health and socioeconomic burden. The high proportion of serious injuries and the observed fatality rate highlight the need to strengthen data collection and analysis in order to improve preventive measures.