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

Author

Listed:
  • Jack Hardwicke

    (Centre for Physical Activity and Life Sciences, University of Northampton, Northampton NN1 5PH, UK)

  • Brett Anthony Baxter

    (Centre for Physical Activity and Life Sciences, University of Northampton, Northampton NN1 5PH, UK)

  • Tim Gamble

    (The Department of Psychological Sciences, School of Psychology, Elizabeth Fry Building, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK)

  • Howard Thomas Hurst

    (Centre for Applied Sport Physical Activity and Performance, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Jack Hardwicke & Brett Anthony Baxter & Tim Gamble & Howard Thomas Hurst, 2022. "An Investigation into Helmet Use, Perceptions of Sports-Related Concussion, and Seeking Medical Care for Head Injury amongst Competitive Cyclists," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(5), pages 1-11, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:5:p:2861-:d:761843
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Harrison, E.A., 2014. "The first concussion crisis: Head injury and evidence in early american football," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 104(5), pages 822-833.
    2. Emer Scullion & Neil Heron, 2022. "A Scoping Review of Concussion Guidelines in Amateur Sports in the United Kingdom," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(3), pages 1-12, January.
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