Patterns of Trauma Deaths in Western Cape of South Africa

Death patterns and factors associated with trauma deaths in the Western Cape of South Africa were examined through a retrospective cross-sectional analysis. The study found that the majority of trauma deaths (94.0%) occurred on-scene, predominantly among young men. Firearms were the leading cause of injury (32.6%), followed by road traffic collisions (17.8%). On-scene deaths were significantly more likely to be caused by firearms compared to healthcare system deaths. Shortening delays to care within emergency centers could potentially improve mortality outcomes, particularly for deaths occurring within 4-24 hours.