# Post-Traumatic Sequelae and Their Associated Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Northern Mountainous Region of Vietnam

## TL;DR

This study in Northern Vietnam finds that over half of injured individuals experience post-traumatic sequelae, with risk factors including older age, ethnic minority status, short treatment, and lack of support.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific risk factors for post-traumatic sequelae in a mountainous region of Vietnam, highlighting vulnerable groups and the need for targeted interventions.

## Key findings

- 62.3% of participants experienced post-traumatic sequelae following injuries.
- Older age (>40), ethnic minority status, short treatment duration, and lack of social support were significant risk factors.
- The study emphasizes the need for focused support policies for vulnerable groups in mountainous regions.

## Abstract

Background: Post-traumatic sequelae have many negative impacts on the health and quality of life of patients, especially for those groups at a high risk of exposure to injuries. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify some factors related to post-traumatic sequelae in people in a mountainous province in Northern Vietnam. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 228 residents from two communes (Pom Lot and Thanh Minh) in Dien Bien province. The participants had all experienced an injury from any cause within the year preceding the study. The post-traumatic sequelae and potential associated factors were assessed. Result: The rate of post-traumatic sequelae among the study participants was 62.3%. An older age (>40), belonging to an ethnic minority group, a short treatment duration, and a lack of family and social support were factors associated with an increased risk of post-traumatic sequelae. Conclusions: Post-traumatic stress disorder is a significant health burden for people in the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam. This study identified vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly, ethnic minorities, and those with inadequate treatment or social support. The results highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions and focused support policies to reduce the consequences of post-traumatic stress disorder for this high-risk group.