Assessing the Cushion Effect: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Role of Obesity in Motor Vehicle Injuries and Fatalities

Purpose: A systematic review and meta-analysis were done to evaluate the effect of obesity in injury and mortality due to motor vehicle accidents. Materials & Methods: The systematic review consisted of 20 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis was conducted on these studies to analyze obesity as a risk factor for specific injuries, as well as overall injury and mortality compared to non-obese patients. Results: The data revealed that obesity was associated with increased lower extremity injuries (odds ratio [OR] = 1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.19-1.69, P <= 0.05), neck injuries (OR = 3.38, 95% CI = 1.58-5.19, P <= 0.05), and overall mortality (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.40-1.61, P <= 0.05). When stratified for obesity class with class I as BMI >30.1-34.9, class II BMI 35-39.9, and class III BMI >40, only class II (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.15-1.24, P <= 0.05) and class III (OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.30-1.68, P <= 0.05) were associated with increased mortality risk. No significant differences were seen with head, upper extremity, thoracic, abdominal, or pelvic injuries. Conclusion: Obesity is a risk factor in motor vehicle accidents for fatality and injury, specifically lower extremity and neck injuries.

Automated summary

Obesity is associated with increased lower extremity and neck injuries, as well as overall mortality in motor vehicle accidents.