Abstract
Introduction: This study examined the use of helmets in adults, adolescents, and children in a western Canadian province that has no helmet legislation.
Methods: A prospective survey of cyclists in two urban Alberta regions was completed. Cyclist demographics, helmet wearing and helmet use were recorded.
Results: Helmets were observed in 2,259 (55%; 99% CI: 52–57) of 4,141 cyclists; however, only 75% (CI 71, 78) were wearing the helmet properly. Patterns of use varied according to age: 75% (CI 71, 78) of children, 29% (CI 23, 34) of adolescents, and 52% (CI 49, 55) of adults wore helmets. Percentages were higher in Calgary than Edmonton (63% vs. 45%; p<0.0001) and females wore helmets more often (64% vs. 50%; p<0.0001).
Discussion: These results identify large within- and between-region variation in the use of cycling helmets in Alberta. Injury prevention planners need to use these data to adopt interventions that are focused on age groupings, gender, and place of residence
Résumé
Introduction: Nous avons étudié l’utilisation du casque chez les adultes, les adolescents et les enfants dans une province de l’Ouest canadien où le port du casque n’est pas réglementé.
Méthode: Nous avons mené une enquête prospective auprès de cyclistes dans deux zones urbaines de l’Alberta. Les données démographiques des cyclistes, le port du casque et l’utilisation du casque ont été enregistrés.
Résultats: Des 4 141 cyclistes à l’étude, 2 259 portaient un casque (55 %; IC de 99 % = 52–57); cependant, seulement 75 % (IC = 71–78) le portaient convenablement. L’utilisation variait selon l’âge: 75 % (IC = 71–78) des enfants, 29 % (IC = 23–34) des adolescents et 52 % (IC = 49–55) des adultes portaient un casque. Les pourcentages étaient plus élevés à Calgary qu’à Edmonton (63 % c. 45 %; p<0,0001), et chez les femmes que chez les hommes (64 % c. 50 %; p<0,0001).
Discussion: Ces résultats montrent qu’il existe d’importants écarts inter- et intra-régionaux dans l’utilisation du casque en Alberta. Les planificateurs en prévention des blessures devraient en tenir compte afin d’élaborer des mesures adaptées selon l’âge, le sexe et le lieu de résidence.
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