Helmet Use and Cervical Spine Injury in Motorcycle Accident Victims: A Cross-sectional Study
K. R. Reshma, Albin Jose, Ricky Koshy BenjaminAbstract
Background:
Motorcycle helmets are well established in reducing head injuries and mortality. However, concerns have been raised regarding their possible association with cervical spine injury during motorcycle crashes. This study evaluated the relationship between helmet use and cervical spine injury among motorcyclists involved in road traffic accidents.
Methods:
This cross-sectional observational study included 670 motorcycle accident victims requiring hospital admission at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, between January and August 2017. Information regarding helmet and alcohol use was collected, and patients were evaluated for cervical spine injury using clinical assessment and appropriate imaging. The association between helmet use and cervical spine injury was analysed using the Chi-square test.
Results:
Of the 670 participants, 179 (26.7%) were helmeted and 491 (73.3%) were unhelmeted. Cervical spine injury was identified in 75 patients (11.2%). The incidence of cervical spine injury was lower among helmeted riders than among unhelmeted riders (8.9% vs. 12.0%); however, the difference was not statistically significant (
Conclusion:
Helmet use was not associated with an increased risk of cervical spine injury among motorcyclists. The findings support continued enforcement of helmet use among both drivers and pillion riders. The high prevalence of alcohol use also highlights the need for measures addressing alcohol-related unsafe riding practices.