Factors associated with Traumatic Brain Injury related Mortality in California

Objective: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a significant public health concern both abroad and in the United States. The aim of our study is to identify factors associated with TBI hospitalizations and mortality in California. Methods: We analyzed data from the California Hospital Discharge Data 2001 to 2007. Results: The study included 50,635 patients with TBI. TBI related hospitalizations increased by 26% and mortality increased by 46% from 2001 to 2007. The highest percentages of TBI hospitalizations were due to fall (31.5%) and in age group =>75 years (36.6%), males (58.6%), and Medicare patients (43%). TBI due to fall were found in <= years old (55%), =>75 years (44.5%), and females (37.3%). TBI due to assaults were found in blacks (29.4%). The highest mortality from TBI were in =>75 years old (11%), White (8.2%) and Asians (8%), and patients with Medicare (10.2 %). More likely to die from TBI were motor vehicle group (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 2.62, 95 % CI: 1.1-6.4); Blacks (AOR: 1.1, 95 % CI: 1.01-1.4); male (AOR: 1.4, 95 % CI: 1.3-1.5); =>75 years old (AOR: 1.6, 95 % CI: 1.4-1.8); and patients with Medicaid (AOR: 1.6, 95 % CI: 1.2-2.3). Conclusion: The study indicated that traumatic brain injury related hospitalization and mortality are increasing in California. The more likely affected groups and likely to die from TBI are Blacks, =>75 years old, male, and those with government insurance. Prevention programs targeting these high risk groups in California are needed.

Data analysis was completed June 2011.