RE: [bikeqld] eMJA: Bicycling injuries and mortality in Victoria, 2001–2006

[Peter Whittle]

Hi everyone

I suggest it's better to read the editorial before the paper. I read the paper first and thought it very poor, then set about writing some notes about why (below). Then I was gratified to see the editorial gave it fairly short shrift too.

Pete

<Our population-based study found that ED presentations and hospital admissions for bicycle injuries increased significantly from 2001 to 2006. There was also a marked increase in cyclists sustaining major trauma.>

Looking at the graph, it is fairly apparent that Emergency Department presentations increased each year. However, hospital admissions, major trauma and deaths could not be said to have changed significantly. The author claims major trauma had a "marked increase", but this was in one year and in other years it flat-lined; furthermore there was no relationship between the frequency of major trauma and the rising rate of hospital admissions. To me, the author's conclusion looks unjustified and one wonders why he tried so hard to force this conclusion from the data.

Also, in relation to the rise in ED presentations, the comparison was "per unit population", not "per unit bicycle usage". I observe there has been a marked increase in bicycling usage in this time (just look at the mass-ride participation). So how could you conclude much at all? If I'm right and bicycle usage increased, then it would possibly mean a fall in the rate of hospital admissions, major trauma and deaths per unit bike usage. Furthermore, this would be offset by health improvements for those taking up cycling.

I'm glad the author concluded some lack of information and need for more data about participation, etc.

Pete

________________________________
From: bikeqld-bounces at bikeqld.org.au [mailto:bikeqld-bounces at bikeqld.org.au] On Behalf Of Richard Hockey
Sent: Monday, 6 April 2009 9:15 AM
To: bikeqld at bikeqld.org.au
Subject: [bikeqld] eMJA: Bicycling injuries and mortality in Victoria, 2001–2006

Article in MJA today:
http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/190_07_060409/sik11001_fm.html

Also editorial:
http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/190_07_060409/bau10159_fm.html

I found both pretty superficial and not that useful.
R
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