Pedal cyclist injuries: An epidemiological study from the National Trauma Registry of Iran

Cycling, as a healthy and economical mode of transportation, have positive impacts on public health. However, due to the lack of safe infrastructure, cyclists are more susceptible to severe injuries. In Iran, the share of cycling in daily trips is lower compared to developed countries, but the mortality rate due to accidents is higher than the global standard. Therefore, conducting comprehensive studies to analyze the pattern of injuries and the factors influencing their severity in Iran seems to be crucial. This study aims to examine the epidemiological status of cycling accidents in Iran.

This cross-sectional and retrospective study utilized data from the National Trauma Registry of Iran from August 01, 2016, to February 20, 2024. All injured cyclists were defined according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10^th Edition (ICD-10) and were included in the study. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS V20 software (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA) with linear and multivariable regression models.

The study results indicated that most accidents occurred between 6 PM and midnight (40.26%). Regarding the cause of the accident, cyclist falls without collision with a vehicle (35.36%), and cyclists collisions with cars, pickups, or vans (30.08%) were the two main reasons for cycling accidents. The most frequent types of injuries involved the upper limbs (36.48%), lower limbs (29.28%), and head, face, and neck (22.4%). The severity score of injuries increased by four percent for each additional year of age. Regarding the relationship between employment status and injury severity, the severity score was significantly higher in the group of children less than 6 years old compared to employed individuals.

This study provides insights into the demographic characteristics, causes, and outcomes of injuries resulting from cycling accidents. The main causes included cyclist falls and collisions with vehicles, with the most common injuries to the upper limbs, head, and neck. Injury severity scores were higher in men and older individuals, and transportation by ambulance was associated with higher injury severity. These findings might inform the development of preventive programs and improvements in cycling safety infrastructure.