Bicycle helmet-wearing variation and association factors in Ontario teenagers and adults

ABSTRACT

Background: The incidence of bicycle helmet use and the factors associated with helmet use in Ontario are presented in this study. The Ontario Health Survey (1996), a population-based survey of Ontario residents, was used as the data source.

Methods: As the factors associated with helmet use were found to differ between adults and teens, a separate analysis was performed for each age grouping. A logistic regression model (with Bootstrap confidence intervals - 95%) was used and adjusted odds ratios (OR) are reported.

Results: Of the 7,693 respondents, 41.1 % reported wearing their helmets on a regular basis when riding a bicycle. Helmet use was greatest …