Post-traumatic Stress Disorders among Survivors of Road Traffic Crash injuries aged 18 Years and above, in Kigali City, Rwanda.

Abstract

Background: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects approximately 4% of the world's population and is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses among survivors of road traffic crashes; however, it has received little attention in the clinical setting.

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and factors associated with PTSD among survivors of road traffic crash injuries aged not less than 18 years obtaining follow-up care in public hospitals in Kigali, Rwanda.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 288 survivors of road traffic crash injuries who were obtaining care in three public hospitals in Kigali for two months, from 1st August to 30th September 2023. The PTSD was diagnosed using a clinician-administered PTSD scale described in DSM V. Binary logistic regression was used to identify the factors linked to PTSD. The previous history of traumatic events was assessed using a Life Event Checklist for Diagnostic Statistical Manual-V (DSM-V).

Results: Of the 288 survivors, 50 (17.36%), were diagnosed to experience PTSD. The following were found to be positively associated with PTSD: age bracket of 32 to 38 (p = 0.001) and 39 to 45 years (p=0.001); absence of formal education (p=0.03); a history of family conflict (p=0.001); severe injuries (p=0.001); and; history of previous traumatic event (p=0.02).

Conclusion: Post-traumatic stress disorder is a public health concern among RTC survivors. Screening programs that capture PTSD should be an important intervention strategy.