Use of Helmets by Motorcycle Drivers Based on Health Belief Model

Road accidents is one of the great challenges but neglected by public health. Although wearing a helmet can significantly decreases the risk of head injury، but few motorcyclists make use of it. In the present study health belief model was applied in predicting helmet wearing among motorcycle drivers.

267 motorcycle drivers from Tabriz، Iran participated in the study. The data gathering tool was a questionnaire including demographic information and health belief model constructs. Data were analyzed using Spearman correlation and ANOVA tests.

The subjects mean age were 30. 6 ± 10 years and the range was between 15 to 65 years. According to self-report، 25. 9% always used a helmet and 22% never wore it. 19% had an accident while riding the motorcycle. The participants gained the highest score in perceived benefits (87. 1 out of 100). There was a significant relationship between using helmet and health belief model constructs (P < 0. 001).

The results indicated a low level of helmet wearing among the subjects. Health belief model can be used as a theoretical framework in the instructional programs to increase helmet use by motorcyclists.