Trends in bicycle related injuries in children 0–9 years of age in an urban Danish population 1980-2023.

Abstract

Introduction

The aim of the study is to describe the development of bicycle related injuries over the last four decades among young children and to describe their role as a passenger or cyclist.

Methods

Retrospective study of 7368 children aged 0-9 years that sustained a bicycle related injury in the period 1980-2023. Incidence rates (IR) where analyzed in three age groups; 0-2 years, 3-5 years and 6-9 years. Data was analyzed in regards to age, gender, severity of injury, usage of bicycle helmet and whether the child was a cyclist or a passenger on a bike.

Results

Bicycle related injury accounted for 74.5% of all traffic related injuries for children 0-9 years treated at XXX 1980-2023. There was a decrease in IRs for all age groups and both genders in the study period with an overall IR decrease by 69.0%. The IR for major and minor injury decreased for all age groups and both genders with an overall decrease of 75.6% and 84.8%, respectively. In the study period, 85.0% of children were injured as cyclists and 15.0% as passengers.

Conclusions

The study showed a significant decrease in overall IR when stratifying by age, gender, injury severity and the role of the child as cyclist or passenger. The study provides useful information for future studies and campaigns regarding children's bicycle safety.