Kristín Rut Arnardóttir, Kristín Briem, Micah Nicholls and Harpa Ragnarsdóttir
Purpose: Whiplash-associated disorder (WAD) is common following traffic accidents (TA). The early incidence rate in the Western world is reportedly around 300 per 100.000 habitants. No publications have examined yearly incidence through a period that includes the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: A retrospective, epidemiological study was conducted in Iceland involving data from the University Hospital and the health care centers for the Capital region for all individuals who visited the emergency room during 2010-2023 due to TAs, with a diagnosis indicating whiplash injury. Yearly incidence rate was calculated and presented per 100.000 person-years and analyzed by age, sex, months, and weekdays.
Results: The overall incidence of whiplash injuries was 328 per 100.000 person-years, higher for females than males (p<0.001) with a significant effect of age (p<0.001), the highest rate being seen in the young-adulthood. A sharp decline was seen between 2016-2020. Followed by a continued low yearly incidence rate, the lowest one in 2023 (100 per 100.000). Conclusion: Better road maintenance, gathering limitations due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and increased car safety may explain the lower incidence in recent years. Youngsters may need greater support as they commence driving and female anatomy warrants consideration during development of safety features.
