Prevalence of road traffic accidents and associated factors among individuals aged 18 to 69 years in Rwanda. Analysis of STEP survey 2021-2022.

BACKGROUND

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a major global public health problem, causing approximately 1.19 million deaths and 50 million injuries annually, with a disproportionate burden in low- and middle-income countries. In Rwanda, RTAs have increased in recent years, largely attributed to speeding, negligence, and alcohol use, despite ongoing prevention efforts.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of road traffic accidents and identify associated socio-demographic factors among adults in Rwanda.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using secondary data from the 2021–2022 Rwanda WHO STEPwise Approach to Surveillance (STEPS) Survey. The study included 5,173 adults aged 18–69 years, representing a weighted population of 4,974,815. Road traffic accidents were assessed using self-reported information from participants and included accidents of any severity within the previous 12 months. Weighted descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariable logistic regression were performed using Stata version 17. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

The weighted prevalence of RTAs was 6.58% (95% CI: 5.54%–7.78%) within 12 months. Multivariable analysis identified key predictors of road traffic accidents. Females (AOR = 0.405, 95% CI: 0.277–0.593), residents of the Southern Province (AOR = 0.464, 95% CI: 0.227–0.947), married/cohabitating (AOR = 0.536, 95% CI: 0.328–0.875), divorced/separated/widowed (AOR = 0.353, 95% CI: 0.173–0.721), and those with primary (AOR = 0.637, 95% CI: 0.426–0.952) or secondary education (AOR = 0.466, 95% CI: 0.242–0.898) had lower odds, while middle-income status increased risk (AOR = 1.473, 95% CI: 1.018–2.132). A reversal in direction between COR and AOR was observed for Eastern Province and secondary education, with secondary education remaining significantly protective.

CONCLUSION

Road traffic accidents remain a significant public health concern in Rwanda. Socio-demographic factors such as sex, Southern Province, marital status, education level, income, and media exposure are important determinants of RTAs. These findings highlight the need for targeted, evidence-based road safety interventions and further research incorporating behavioral, environmental, and vehicle-related risk factors. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.