[Are bicycle helmets necessary for children? Pros and cons].
Prevalence of severe head injuries and deaths in children due to bicycle accidents is high in Hungary. The aim of this review was to investigate the effectiveness of bicycle helmets in preventing head injuries in children.


METHODS
Review of literature was based on Hungarian and international studies published on MEDLINE. Furthermore, we used official statistical databases and investigations of some international child safety organizations.


RESULTS
The effectiveness of bicycle helmets in reducing the number of severe head injuries and bicycle deaths is very well established. Several countries have mandatory helmet laws, which lowered bicycle deaths and severe head injuries. It was proved that helmets are effective only if worn properly. Otherwise the risk of head injuries might increase. In spite of the findings, counter-arguments question the effectiveness of helmets; moreover, give account of a helmet's risk growing effect.


CONCLUSIONS
Upon the literature, the number of studies proving the necessity of helmets is higher than those objecting to them. However, this positive effect can be achieved only if several factors are present at the same time. In Hungary there is a need for effective prevention strategies such as the popularization of properly-worn helmets.
Kiss
Katalin
K
Pécsi Tudományegyetem, Altalános Orvostudományi Kar, Gyermekgyógyászati Klinika, Sebészeti Osztály, Pécs. dr.kiss.katalin@invitel.hu
Pintér
András
A
D000293:Adolescent; D001642:Bicycling / Q000293:injuries; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006259:Craniocerebral Trauma / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D006260:Head Protective Devices; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D006814:Hungary / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male