Epidemiology of traumatic brain injury in South Asia: A Systematic Review

BackgroundTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious global health problem contributing significantly to disability and death. No systematic review existed on epidemiology of TBI in South Asia, where accurate data were essential for planning healthcare policy and injury prevention programs. MethodsThis systematic review adhered to PRISMA guideline and received registration from PROSPERO (CRD42022364511). This review included observational from 1 January 1950 to 28 December 2024. A systematic search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar and included studies fulfilling predetermined criteria. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated by Methodological Evaluation of Observational Research (MORE) checklist and result were presented as narrative synthesis. FindingsAnalysis of 130 studies reported a high incidence of TBI in South Asia primarily from road traffic accidents (RTAs). Prevalence ranged from 8.4% to 95.9%, with elevated case fatality and mortality rates. RTAs, falls and assaults were the leading cause of severe TBI. Adult males aged 21-30 years showed highest risk. ConclusionThe results highlighted urgent necessity for standardized case definitions, improved data collection, and strengthened healthcare capacity in South Asia. Further research is required to understand long-term consequences and guide evidence-based public health responses.