Economic and health burden of road traffic crashes in Kaski, Nepal

Evidence on the economic burden and costs of road traffic crashes (RTCs) in Nepal remains limited. This study assessed the disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), costs and sociodemographic and injury-related factors associated with RTCs.

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 107 RTC victims from Kaski district, Nepal, covering cases that occurred from 1 year to 45 days before the survey. Victims were identified via hospital, police and insurance records. Data were collected using a semistructured interview schedule that included sociodemographics, injury details, direct and indirect medical costs, and DALYs. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis, including the Relative Concentration Index (RCI), were used to explore inequalities and associations with DALYs.

Over one-third (37.4%) of victims were aged 25-44, and 60.7% were male. Each RTC and DALY cost an estimated US$391 and US$82, respectively. The DALY burden was about 1021 per million person-years, with over 99% from years of life lost. Most victims were young, unemployed, highly educated motorcyclists from wealthier groups. Recovery took an average of 153±86 days. RCI showed pro-rich inequality (0.0598, p=0.016), with poorer individuals requiring nine more days to recover. Uninsured and unemployed victims also faced longer recovery.

RTCs in Kaski impose a significant economic and health burden, particularly affecting young, unemployed motorcyclists. Socioeconomic disparities were evident, with poorer, uninsured and unemployed individuals experiencing longer recovery periods. These findings highlight the need for equitable health policies and further research into broader RTC-related costs.