Motorcycle Accidents in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Motorcycle accidents are prevalent worldwide and pose a significant risk of morbidity and mortality. Motorcyclists are more likely to succumb to accidents compared to car users. The impact of motorcycle accidents is substantial on individuals, healthcare centers, and governments. This systematic literature review aims to summarize findings related to the mechanisms of motorcycle accidents, profiles of associated injuries, and mortality rates, with a focus on motorcyclists aged 15 to 65 years in the MENA region. PubMed and Web of Science were systematically searched from October 2013 to October 2022. Relevant reports were collected and reviewed for eligibility based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. We identified 15 articles from the MENA region, covering countries such as Iran, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The frequency of motorcycle accidents was highest during the summer season, and the most common mechanism involved collisions with other vehicles. Head and lower limb injuries were the most frequently reported anatomical injury sites. The mortality rate ranged from 0.49% to 4.5%.Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe injuries and fatalities. Governments and healthcare workers play a crucial role in raising awareness about preventable factors contributing to accidents and emphasizing the importance of wearing protective measures.