Regional Statistics from 2023 Community-based Severe Trauma Surveillance in the Gyeongnam Region

To support region-specific injury prevention strategies, this study analyzed the incidence and characteristics of severe trauma, nontraumatic serious injuries, and mass casualty incidents across the Gyeongnam region (Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam) using data from the 2023 Community-Based Severe Trauma Surveillance.

By referencing the 2023 Community-Based Severe Trauma Surveillance statistics from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the study examined injury characteristics in Gyeongnam and compared them with national figures.

The rate of severe trauma rose from 1,188 (15.4 per 100,000) the prior year to 1,252 cases (16.4 per 100,000); the highest incidence rates were observed in patients aged 80 and older (Busan, 25.1; Ulsan, 37.7; Gyeongnam, 39.7). Transport accidents were the most prevalent incidents in Ulsan (52.4%) and Gyeongnam (55.0%), while falls/slips predominated in Busan (55.2%). Case fatality rates fell across Busan (57.9%→52.3%), Ulsan (48.5%→46.5%), and Gyeongnam (62.0%→57.7%), while disability rates rose in each of these regions (Busan, 83.2%→84.8%; Ulsan, 79.1%→87.9%; Gyeongnam, 70.7%→76.2%). Nontraumatic serious injuries dropped to 2,363 incidents (30.9 per 100,000) from a previous count of 2,400 (31.1); the highest incidence rates were observed among those aged 80 and older (Busan, 58.3; Ulsan, 59.6; Gyeongnam, 69.6). Self-harm/suicide ranked as the primary underlying cause (Busan, 80.3%; Ulsan, 66.5%; Gyeongnam, 59.3%). Notably, Busan posted the highest rate nationwide. Mass casualty incidents accounted for 622 cases (8.1 per 100,000), primarily due to vehicle accidents (Busan, 73.7%; Ulsan, 64.8%; Gyeongnam, 78.4%).

Injury patterns differ by location. Busan necessitates reinforced fall prevention and mental health interventions; Ulsan requires targeted strategies for severe trauma, mass casualty management, and mitigation of nontraumatic injury fatality; and Gyeongnam demands healthcare infrastructure improvements to reduce incidence, case fatality, and disability rates. Consequently, localized management frameworks tailored to growing elderly populations are warranted across the Gyeongnam area.