Motorcycle helmets in Vietnam: ownership, quality, purchase price, and affordability.
OBJECTIVE
This study investigated motorcycle helmet ownership, quality, purchase price, and affordability in Vietnam.


METHODS
A random sample of motorcyclists was interviewed to investigate aspects of helmet ownership, the purchase price, and affordability of a motorcycle helmet. Multivariate modeling conducted to determine factors associated with the purchase price and affordability of motorcycle helmets. Helmet quality was assessed based on current legal requirements in Vietnam.


RESULTS
The prevalence of helmet use in Vietnam remains low (23.3%) despite a high level of helmet ownership (94%), indicating that this is an important area for public health intervention. Overall the quality of helmets appeared to be good; however, few helmets displayed legally required information. Motorcyclists with a high income purchase more helmets for their household rather than more expensive helmets.


CONCLUSIONS
To ensure that helmets are accessible to the community, policy-makers need to consider pricing motorcycle helmets at a price indicated by the results of this study. Prior to universal motorcycle helmet legislation, the government will also need to ensure that standard helmets are available and that enforcement is at a level to ensure that motorcycle helmets are actually used.
Hung
Dang Viet
DV
Injury Division, The George Institute for International Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
Stevenson
Mark R
MR
Ivers
Rebecca Q
RQ
D000328:Adult; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006260:Head Protective Devices / Q000191:economics* / Q000592:standards / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009049:Motorcycles; D010067:Ownership; D012923:Social Class; D014744:Vietnam