Motor vehicle crashes were the leading cause of death among hospitalised trauma patients in a study of more than 5,000 admissions between 2018 and 2022, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has reported.
Burns, however, recorded the highest proportion of deaths among the injury categories examined, at 11.4 per cent, despite accounting for fewer admissions.
The findings were presented during the second day of the Bethune Round Table 2026 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, according to an October 16 statement from GPHC.
The research was conducted by Dr Alexander Harvey, Director of the Institute of Health Sciences Education at GPHC, and Dr Dwayne Kellman, a Consultant in the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department. It examined the causes of serious injuries and factors associated with deaths among hospitalised trauma patients.
“Motor vehicle crashes were the leading cause of trauma-related deaths among hospitalised patients,” GPHC stated, while noting that falls also contributed significantly to serious injuries.
The findings draw attention to both the prevention of injuries and the treatment patients receive after reaching hospital. While crashes accounted for the most deaths, the proportion recorded among burn patients highlights the need for attention to that category of injury.
Researchers also identified age, injury severity, injury type and ethnicity as factors associated with the likelihood of death following trauma. The statement did not provide a breakdown of those associations.
GPHC said the research reinforces the need to strengthen emergency services, staff training, patient monitoring and specialised surgical capacity.
“Preventing injuries must begin long before someone arrives at the hospital,” the corporation stated.
It urged road users to slow down, remain alert to pedestrians and obey traffic rules, while encouraging precautions against falls and burns at home and in the workplace.
The hospital also stressed the importance of timely emergency assistance and appropriate trauma care when injuries occur.
Other discussions during the conference’s second day focused on pedestrian safety, cardiac surgery and patient care, with attention to improving both injury prevention and treatment.
