Epidemiology and Clinical Impact of Cattle-Related Injuries: A Retrospective Study in a High-Density Livestock Region.

Abstract

IntroductionFrequent human-cattle interactions in high-density livestock regions expose farm workers to a significant risk of traumatic accidents, which range from minor to severe and life-threatening injuries. This study aimed to assess the incidence, mechanisms, and clinical impact of cattle-related injuries in a high-livestock-density area to inform preventive and healthcare strategies.MethodsThis monocentric retrospective observational study was conducted at Santa Croce e Carle Hospital, Cuneo, Italy, between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2024. All patients aged ≥18 y presenting to the emergency department with cattle-related trauma were included. Injury severity was assessed using the Injury Severity Score (ISS), need for total-body computed tomography, intensive care unit admission, and 30-d mortality.ResultsA total of 182 patients (male:female ratio 4.5) were included, with a median age of 55 y (interquartile range, 45-64). The primary injury mechanisms were kicks (43.4%), charges (29.1%), and trampling (9.9%). Most cases (67.6%) were low priority at triage; 5.5% required intensive care unit admission. The median ISS was 1 (interquartile range, 1-4), and 3.3% had an ISS of >15. No trauma-related mortality was observed within 30 d.ConclusionsCattle-related injuries pose a substantial burden on farm workers and healthcare services; injuries range from minor to severe trauma. Given the high-energy potential of cattle-related impacts, improved safety measures and specific clinical management protocols are warranted to mitigate risks and enhance occupational safety in agricultural settings.