Epidemiology of Violent Deaths in Nairobi, Kenya: Age, Gender, Methods, and Psychosocial Correlates

Abstract

Background: Violent deaths, including homicide, suicide, and accidental fatalities, represent a significant public health challenge, especially in urban areas like Nairobi, Kenya. Young males aged 15–40 years are disproportionately affected, leading to substantial social and economic burdens. Despite growing awareness, there remains a lack of detailed understanding regarding the specific patterns, causes, and socio-demographic factors contributing to violent mortality in Nairobi.
Objectives: This study aims to explore the epidemiology of violent deaths in Nairobi, with a focus on age, gender, and method-specific patterns. The goal is to identify key risk factors and propose targeted interventions to reduce violent mortality, particularly among young males.
Methods: A prospective descriptive study was conducted using autopsy records from Nairobi City Mortuary between June 2009 and May 2010. Violent deaths were categorized into homicide, suicide, and accidental deaths. Data on age, gender, cause of death, method, and contextual factors were extracted and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05).
Results: The study found that young males, particularly those aged 21–40 years, bore the highest burden of violent deaths. Homicide victims mainly suffered blunt force trauma (55%) and sharp force injuries (30%). Suicide was most commonly by hanging (79%) and poisoning (18.3%). Road traffic accidents (55%) were the leading cause of accidental deaths. Males accounted for the majority of violent deaths, with socio-cultural factors like poverty and limited mental health care playing significant roles.
Conclusion: Targeted public health interventions are crucial to address both the immediate and underlying socio-economic and mental health challenges contributing to violent deaths, especially among young males in informal settlements.
Recommendations: A multi-faceted approach, including violence prevention programs, mental health services, urban safety measures, and socio-economic support, is essential to reduce violent deaths.