An Investigation into Helmet Use, Perceptions of Sports-Related Concussion, and Seeking Medical Care for Head Injury amongst Competitive Cyclists

Hardwicke, J., Baxter, B. A., Gamble, T. and Hurst, H. (2022) An Investigation into Helmet Use, Perceptions of Sports-Related Concussion, and Seeking Medical Care for Head Injury amongst Competitive Cyclists. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 19(5) 1661-7827.

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Item Type:	Article
Abstract:	The purpose of this study was to investigate competitive cyclists’ helmet use, perceptions of sports-related concussion (SRC), and medical-care-seeking behaviors. A mixed-method approach was used with qualitative and quantitative data presented. The study comprised of a cross-sectional analysis of 405 competitive cyclists who completed an online survey. Results indicated that most participants believed a bicycle helmet protects against SRC (79.5%) and considerable numbers of participants would not seek medical care for potential head injury in scenarios where this would be recommended. It was also discovered that marketing of concussion reduction technology influences cyclists’ helmet-purchasing behaviors. With the data presented, it is recommended that governing bodies in cycling need to develop educational resources to address gaps in knowledge regarding SRC amongst cyclists. We also suggest that more independent research on concussion reduction technologies in bicycle helmets is needed, with advertising supported by clear scientific evidence to avoid negatively influencing head injury management and reporting behaviors amongst cyclists.
Uncontrolled Keywords:	competitive cycling, helmets, medical care seeking behaviors, sports-related concussion
Creators:	Hardwicke, Jack, Baxter, Brett A., Gamble, Tim and Hurst, Howard
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes:	?? ASSCI ?? Research Centres > Centre for Physical Activity and Life Sciences
Date:	1 March 2022
Date Type:	Publication
Journal or Publication Title:	International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Volume:	19
Number:	5
Language:	English
DOI:	https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19052861
ISSN:	1661-7827
Status:	Published / Disseminated
Refereed:	Yes
Related URLs:	https://pure.northampton.ac.uk/en/public...
URI:	http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/id/eprint/16222

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