Citation

Seerig LM, Bacchieri G, Nascimento GG, Barros AJ, Demarco FF. Cien. Saude Colet. 2016; 21(12): 3703-3710.

Affiliation

Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia, Departamento de Medicina Social, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel). R. Mal. Deodoro 1160/3°, Centro. 96020-220 Pelotas RS Brasil.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Associacao Brasileira de Pos-Graduacao em Saude Coletiva)

DOI

10.1590/1413-812320152112.28212015

PMID

27925111

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the profile of motorcycle users and determine the prevalence of use. Also, to evaluate the reason for using a motorcycle, users' perceived risk of traffic accident, pattern of helmet wearing and number of accidents related to motorcycle use in the last 12 months. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the city of Pelotas, Southern Brazil. Sampling process was carried out in two stages, with the primary unit being the census track and the secondary the house. The study included 3,004 individuals aged 10 to 59 years, which answered a structured questionnaire. The outcome of the study was the use of motorcycle. The prevalence of motorcycle use was 25%. The majority of the riders were composed by males (79%). Individuals aged from 18 to 35-years-old comprised 42% of the total number of users, mainly as riders (24%). Forty percent of the users were not using properly the helmet strap. The major part of the users (76%) had a perception of high risk for accidents. The prevalence of accidents was 8%; it was higher among males and among those individuals aged from 18 to 35 years. The use of motorcycle was widespread in the population. Users were aware of the risk of accident, even though they reported to not wear correctly the helmet.

Language: en