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The surge in electric bike (e-bike) popularity is matched by an alarming rise in head injuries among riders, as revealed by new research. Despite the rapid increase in e-bike usage, the odds of riders wearing helmets are declining, raising concerns about public safety.
A study published in JAMA Surgery underscores the escalating trend of e-bike injuries in the United States. Researchers found a staggering 30-fold increase in e-bike-related injuries from 2017 to 2022, with hospitalizations rising by 43 times during the same period. These findings come as e-bikes, capable of reaching speeds exceeding 20 miles per hour, become increasingly prevalent.
Lead author Adrian Fernandez, MD, a resident doctor at the University of California San Francisco, expressed concern over the explosive rise in injuries, particularly head injuries, among e-bike riders. Despite the surge in injuries, the use of helmets among e-bike riders is on the decline, exacerbating the risk of severe head trauma.
The study, based on data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, revealed that common injuries among e-bike riders included fractures to the upper and lower extremities, blunt injuries from collisions, and notably, head injuries such as concussions and cuts to the scalp.
Of significant concern is the declining helmet usage among e-bike riders, despite the proven effectiveness of helmets in reducing head injuries. Fernandez emphasized the urgent need for public awareness campaigns to promote helmet use among e-bike riders, highlighting the critical role helmets play in preventing severe head trauma.
Barry Miller, PhD, MBA, director of outreach and business development for the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab, underscored the importance of selecting the right helmet for e-bike riding. Miller emphasized the need for helmets specifically designed to protect against the unique risks associated with e-bike riding, such as higher speeds and less predictable handling.
Despite efforts to raise awareness about helmet safety, cultural perceptions and misconceptions persist, according to Andy Powell, co-owner of Rent EBoards Charlotte. Powell stressed the importance of education and advocacy to change attitudes towards helmet usage among riders, emphasizing the long-term benefits of injury prevention.
As e-bike usage continues to surge, ensuring rider safety through helmet use remains paramount. Public health initiatives, coupled with advancements in helmet technology, are critical to mitigating the risk of head injuries and promoting safe e-bike riding practices.
Reference: Fernandez, A., et al. (2024). JAMA Surgery. DOI: [insert DOI]
