# Factors Affecting the Frequency of Maxillofacial Injuries in Jahrom, Iran

## TL;DR

This study identifies road traffic accidents and substance use as key factors in maxillofacial injuries in Iran, suggesting the need for prevention strategies.

## Contribution

The study provides region-specific insights into maxillofacial trauma risk factors in Iran, emphasizing road traffic accidents and substance use.

## Key findings

- Road traffic accidents and motorcyclist involvement are strongly linked to maxillofacial injuries.
- Alcohol and substance use significantly increase the risk of maxillofacial trauma.
- Falls are also a notable cause of maxillofacial injuries.

## Abstract

Maxillofacial trauma constitutes a major public health concern due to its potential for severe complications and substantial impact on quality of life.

This study aimed to elucidate the factors influencing the occurrence of maxillofacial trauma in patients presenting with traumatic injuries at Peymaniyeh Hospital in Jahrom, Iran.

This cross-sectional study examined trauma patients at Peymaniyeh Hospital in Jahrom, Iran, from April 2022 to March 2023. A census approach included all trauma patients whose data were recorded in the National Trauma Registry of Iran. Data were collected using a tailored checklist that captured demographic and contextual variables along with injury mechanisms. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 22.

Of 924 trauma patients, 218 were diagnosed with maxillofacial trauma and 706 with non-maxillofacial trauma. The majority of the trauma patients were male (76.4%), and the distribution of age groups was not statistically different between the two types of injuries (p= 0.571). Univariate analysis revealed that substance (p= 0.007) and alcohol use (p< 0.001), road traffic accidents (RTAs) (p= 0.001), and representation of motorcyclists (p= 0.001) were significantly more prevalent in maxillofacial injury compared to non-maxillofacial injury category. Logistic regression analysis revealed that substance use (OR= 2.04, 95% CI 1.03-3.99, p= 0.040), alcohol consumption (OR= 2.89, 95% CI 1.37-6.09, p= 0.005), and experiencing RTAs (OR= 12.80, 95% CI 6.07-26.98, p< 0.001) and falling (OR= 3.69, 95% CI 1.68-8.11, p= 0.001) were significantly associated with the occurrence of maxillofacial injuries.

This study underscores the prominence of RTAs, particularly those involving motorcyclists, as a primary cause of maxillofacial injuries. The significant association between alcohol and substance use and the elevated risk of these injuries is evident. These findings highlight the need for targeted prevention strategies to promote safe driving practices, and implement public health policies aimed at mitigating alcohol and substance use disorder to reduce the incidence of such injuries.