Commercial Motorcycle Riders Research Articles

Prevalence and the Associated Risk Factors of Low Back Pain among Commercial Motorcycle Riders in Kedah, Malaysia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Prevalence and the Associated Risk Factors of Low Back Pain among Commercial Motorcycle Riders in Kedah, Malaysia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Tobacco Use and Oral Health Status: A Cross-sectional Study among Commercial Motorcycle Riders in a Suburban Community in Nigeria

Tobacco Use and Oral Health Status: A Cross-sectional Study among Commercial Motorcycle Riders in a Suburban Community in Nigeria

Chemical contaminant exposures assessed using silicone wristbands among fuel station attendants, taxi drivers and commercial motorcycle riders in Kampala, Uganda

There are concerns over traffic-related air pollution in Uganda’s capital, Kampala. Individuals in the transportation sector are hypothesized to be at greater risk for exposure to volatile organic compounds, given their proximity to vehicle exhaust. Silicone wristbands are a wearable technology that passively sample individuals’ chemical exposures. We conducted a pilot cross sectional study to measure personal exposures to volatile organic compounds among 14 transportation workers who wore a wristband for five days. We analyzed for 75 volatile organic compounds; 33 chemicals (35%) were detected and quantified in at least 50% of the samples and 15 (16%) chemicals were detected and quantified across all the samples. Specific chemicals were associated with participants’ occupation. The findings can guide future large studies to inform policy and practice to reduce exposure to chemicals in the environment in Kampala.

Strategic Plan Implementation Factors and Health Conditions Promotion in Rwanda: A Case of Karongi DDP in Bwishyura Sector

The general objective of this research was to investigate the effect of strategic plan implementation on the living conditions Bwishyura Sector, Karongi District. The specific objectives was to determine effect of strategic leadership on health conditions of Bwishyura population, to establish effect of organizational structure on health conditions of Bwishyura population, and to determine effect of human resources on health conditions of Bwishyura population. The study was target 33,065 population of Bwishyura sector in which a sample size of 396 respondents determined using Slovin’s formula selected using probability and non-probability sampling methods. In this regards, in probability sampling methods, the study employed simple random sampling technique to choose project beneficiaries; and procurement officers using purposive sampling technique. The research instrument to collect data was questionnaire and interview. Using statistical product and service solution used to generate descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (correlation and regression analysis) for statistical data. The Pearson correlation obtained was estimated to 0.571 indicating a positive index and a positive correlation linking the two variables. The “sig.value” indicating that the value is less than 0.05 (Note that the SPSS output always indicate a value less than 0.005 as 0.000). The p value was 0.000 (2-tailed). All of these assumption of the respondents from the population of Bwishyura sector in Karongi district were helped the research to conclude that the strategic plan implemented were contributed positively to the health condition of the population of Bwishyura sector. Therefore, we recommend other further studies to be done and concentrate on two areas: Future studies should work on the contribution of local government in improving global economy and also to find out how the influence of population increase and poor technology contribute to the delay in services and customer management in other sectors in Karongi district. Keywords: Knowledge, practice, first aid delivery, commercial motor cycle riders

Road Use Regulations: Knowledge and Compliance Among Commercial Motorcycle Riders in Oluyole Local Government Area, Ibadan, Nigeria

The usage of motorbikes for commercial transportation has become increasingly popular, particularly when there are traffic jams in Nigeria. However, the number of injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents is rising, and there is insufficient data on how much commercial motorcyclists abide by traffic laws and regulations. This study, therefore, assessed the knowledge of road use regulations and compliance among commercial motorcycle riders in Oluyole Local Government Area (OLGA), Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted 300 randomly selected commercial motorcyclists in OLGA. A validated semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect information. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square at p=0.05. Respondents’ mean age was 31.9±7.0 years, 66.0% were married while 54% had a valid riding license. Sixty-eight percent of the participants stated that 50 km/hour is the speed limit for commercial motorcycle while 77.7% reported that the dotted white line on the road indicating a rider can overtake. The mean knowledge score was 7.8±1.8, 86.0% had good knowledge on road use rules and regulation. Most (99.7%) of the participants revealed that they always mindful of following road use rules while 37.0% said they always use helmet whenever they want to carry passengers. The mean level of compliance to road use rules and regulation was 6.3±0.6, only 31% were in full compliance with the road use rules and regulation. Significantly, commercial motorcycle riders who possess a valid drivers’ license (36.6%) had full compliance to road use regulations compared to those without valid drivers’ license (25.2%). Commercial motorcycle riders had good knowledge of traffic rules and regulations but full compliance was low. Compliance to road use rules and regulations should be enforced.

Prevalence and correlates of erectile dysfunction among long-distance commercial vehicle drivers and commercial motorcycle riders in Ibadan Nigeria: a comparative cross-sectional study.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a global public health problem that affects the quality of life, interpersonal, occupational, and social functioning of sufferers. Despite being high-risk groups, there is a paucity of data on erectile dysfunction among commercial vehicle drivers and motorcycle riders. We aimed to determine and compare the prevalence and factors associated with ED among long-distance commercial vehicle drivers (CVDs) and commercial motorcycle riders (CMRs) in Ibadan, Nigeria. We used a comparative cross-sectional study design to enroll eligible male respondents in selected motor/motorcycle parks within Ibadan metropolis. Interviewer administered questionnaires were used to elicit sociodemographic/health-related characteristics, and ED status among participants. Data was analyzed using STATA version 12. Chi-square and Binary logistic regression were conducted to explore the association between ED and other covariates. Analyses were performed at 5% significance level. The prevalence of ED was significantly higher among motorcycle riders than vehicle drivers (71.4% vs 47.4%, p = 0.001). Predictors of ED among CMRs were monogamous marriage type and history of perineal injury; while among CVRs were aged above 40-years, history of perineal injury, and current use of alcohol. There is a need for public education and awareness programmes on ED to reduce the burden and improve well-being in these populations.

Prevalence and exposure to factors associated with low back pain (LBP) among commercial motorcycle riders in south eastern Nigeria

Introduction: LBP is the most common cause of activity restriction and work absence in much parts of the world, putting a heavy financial burden on people. This study aims at determining the prevalence and exposure to risk factors associated with low back pain (LBP) among commercial bike riders within Nnewi-North Local Government Area of Anambra state. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study that involved commercial motorcycle riders that ply within the four major villages of Nnewi town in Nnewi-North local government area of Anambra state. An interviewer based semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the respondents at their muster points. Results: One hundred and fifty-four riders were recruited and all were male. The prevalence of LBP was 25%. LBP was highest among riders between ages of 26-36years. There was significant association linking age and marital status to low back pain (LBP) with p-values of 0.001 and 0.013 respectively. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that low back pain is very common among this population and has led to both mild, moderate and severe functional disabilities to the riders. This study also demonstrated the exposure of the riders to some risk factors of LBP. Adequate public awareness, education and use of ergonomics would help in the reduction of this problem.

Assessment of pain management strategies and perception of the role of physiotherapists in the management of low back pain among motorcycle riders in south-eastern Nigeria

Introduction: LBP is the most common cause of activity restriction and work absence in much parts of the world, putting a heavy financial burden on people. This study is aimed at determining the management practices and the knowledge and utilization of physiotherapy services among commercial motorcycle riders in Nnewi north. It is very essential with the long-term objective of increasing the level of knowledge of physiotherapy and promote its utilization among motorcycle riders and general public. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study that involved commercial motorcycle riders that ply within the four major villages of Nnewi town in Nnewi-North local government area of Anambra state. An interviewer based semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the respondents at their muster points. Results: One hundred and fifty-four riders were recruited and all were male. 76% of the respondent for their low back pain is pain relief (drugs) such as Paracetamol 15.6%, while 44.2% of the respondent used drugs unknown to them, 19.5% reported that only stretching was their home management for their pain, majority 96.8% had never utilized their services, most 68.8% accepted to utilize it if the need arises. Conclusion: Our study suggests that only few riders sought proper medical care for their low back pain. Majority chose over-the-counter medications while others went for other home management for pain such as stretching, use of ointments etc. Also, most of the riders lack a good knowledge of physiotherapy and their roles in pain management. Although, majority had never utilized their services, most accepted to utilize it if the need arises.

Incentives for mothers, health workers and \u201cboda\u2013boda\u201d riders to improve community-based referral process and deliveries in the rural community: a case of Busoga Region in Uganda

BackgroundThis study set out to investigate how incentives for mothers, health workers and boda–boda riders can improve the community-based referral process and deliveries in the rural community of Busoga region in Uganda. Both the monetary and non-monetary incentives have been instrumental in the improvement of deliveries at health centres.MethodsThe study was a 2 arm cluster non-randomized control trial study design; with intervention and control groups of mothers, health workers and boba–boda (commercial motor-cycle) riders from selected health centres and communities in Busoga region. Among the study interventions was the provision of incentives to mothers, health workers (midwives and VHTs) and boda–boda riders for a duration of 6 months. Monetary and non-monetary incentives were applied in this study, namely; provision of training, training allowances, refreshments during the training, payment of transport fares by mothers to boda–boda riders, free telephone calls through establishment of a pre-paid Closed Caller User Group (CUG) and provision of bonus airtime to all registered CUG participants and rewards to best performers. The study used a mixed methods design. Descriptive statistical analysis was computed using STATA version 14 for the quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data.ResultsFindings revealed that incentives improved community-based referrals and health facility deliveries in the rural community of Busoga. The proportion of mothers who delivered from health centres and used boda–boda transport were 70.5% in the intervention arm and only 51.2% in the control arm. Of the mothers who delivered from the health centres, majority (69.4%) were transported by trained boda–boda riders while only 30.6% were transported by un-trained boda–boda riders. And of the mothers transported by the boda boda riders, 21.3% in the intervention arm reported that the riders responded to their calls within 20 min, an improvement from 4.3% before the intervention. Mothers who were responded to between 21–30 min increased from 31.4% to 69.6% in the intervention arm while in the control arm, it only increased from 37.1% to a dismal 40.3%. Interestingly, as the time interval increased, the number of boda–boda riders who delayed to respond to mothers’ calls reduced. In the intervention arm, only 6.2% of the mothers stated that boda–boda riders took as many as 31–60 min’ time interval to respond to their calls in post intervention compared to a whopping 54.9% in the pre intervention time. There was little change in the control arm from 53.2% in the pre intervention to 41.2% in the post intervention.ConclusionIncentives along the maternal health chain are key and the initiative of incentivising the categories of stakeholders (mothers, midwives, the VHTs and the boda–boda riders) has demonstrated that partnerships are very critical in achieving better maternal outcomes (health facility-based deliveries) as a result of proper referral processes.

Health implications of knowledge, and attitudes for road safety and protective measures among commercial motorcycle riders in a semi-urban setting in Nigeria

Background: Knowledge of road safety and preventive measures effectively reduces accidents associated with motorcycles. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes of motorcycle riders in the Ado-Odo Ota local government area (LGA) towards road safety and accident preventive measures. Materials and Methods: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study that used a structured questionnaire to collect data related to knowledge of safety measures from the respondents using a stratified random sampling technique to identify potential respondents. IBM-SPSS version 25.0 for Windows IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA, was used for data analysis. Results: There were 374 respondents, of which 69.0% owned the motorcycles, and 31.0% were hired/rented. The knowledge of road safety and preventive measures among respondents was generally poor (46.5%). Rented/hired motorcycle riders displayed better knowledge (55.2%) than owners (42.6%) (P < 0.05). Factors associated with knowledge include being married COR = 2.48 (95% CI = 1.22–5.08; P < 0.05), secondary/higher education COR = 1.90 (95% CI = 1.19–3.05; P < 0.05), and over 6-year of experience COR of 1.69 (95% CI = 1.08–2.63; P < 0.05). Motorcycle owners displayed better attitudes (71.7%) than hired (57.8%) (P < 0.05). Secondary/higher education COR 1.24 (95% CI = 0.78–1.97; P > 0.05), and good knowledge COR = 4.15 (95% CI = 2.50–6.91; P < 0.005) were the determinants of positive attitudes towards safety measures. The overall prevalence of road traffic crashes was 45.2%, higher among riders with insufficient knowledge (47.5%) and negative attitudes (55.7%) towards safety measures. Conclusion: The government and other stakeholders should organize regular training to improve the riders’ knowledge and attitudes towards road safety and preventive measures due to the riders’ inadequate knowledge of safety and protective measures. These actions will help reduce accident rates and consequently reduce road traffic crashes’ medical and economic burdens.

Association between alcohol consumption, marijuana use and road traffic injuries among commercial motorcycle riders: A population-based, case-control study in Dares Salaam, Tanzania

BackgroundAlcohol consumption and psychoactive drug use are well-recognised risk factors for road traffic injuries (RTIs). Both types of use may impair and affect drivers' performance. Yet, there is limited literature on their contribution to RTIs among commercial motorcycle riders, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. This study aimed to determine the association between alcohol consumption, marijuana use and RTIs among commercial motorcycle riders in the city of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. MethodsWe conducted a case-control study between July 2018 and March 2019. Cases (n = 164) were commercial motorcycle riders who had sustained an RTIs and attended at a hospital. Controls (n = 400) were commercial motorcycle riders who had not experienced an RTIs that led to hospital attendance during the past six months. Alcohol consumption was assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification (AUDIT) score, which classified participants as a non-drinker, normal drinker(1–7 scores) and risky drinker (scores ≥ 8). Marijuana use was assessed through self-reported use in the past year. We estimated odds ratios (ORs) using logistic regression adjusted for sociodemographic, driver-, and work-related factors. ResultsRisky drinking was associated with close to six times the odds of RTIs compared to non-drinkers (OR = 5.98, 95% CI: 3.25 – 11.0). The association remained significant even after adjusting for sociodemographic, driving and work-related factors (OR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.01 – 5.76). The crude odds ratios of RTIs were significantly higher among users of marijuana than non-users (OR = 2.33, 95% CI: 1.38 – 3.95). However, the association did not remain statistically significant after adjusting for confounders (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 0.49–2.48). ConclusionOur findings confirm increased odds of RTIs among commercial motorcycle riders with risky drinking behaviour even after taking sociodemographic, driving and work-related factors into account. Unlike alcohol consumption the relationship between marijuana use and RTIs among commercial motorcycle riders was unclear. Since motorcycle riders are more susceptible to the effect of alcohol due to higher demands of balance and coordination and because commercial motorcyclist riders, in particular, they spend a considerable amount of time on the road, our results underscore the importance of addressing hazardous alcohol consumption and marijuana use in future prevention strategies to enhance road safety.

Determinants of Accident Occurrence among Commercial Motor Cycle Riders in Kaloleni Sub-County, Kilifi County, Kenya

Motorcycle accidents remain one of the main global concerns despite extensive research and interventions. The African region has the highest road fatality rates globally, in spite of being the least motorized region. Kenya has an estimated road fatality rate of 20.9 per 100,000 people, higher than that of the European region. There has been an increased use of motorcycles in Kenya over the last decade, so has the number of deaths from motorcycle injury. This study was aimed to establish the determinants of accident occurrence among commercial motorcycle riders in Kaloleni sub-County, Kilifi County, Kenya. A self- administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 279 commercial motorcycle riders. Factors associated with accident occurrence were analysed using both bivariate and multivariate analysis. Results showed that 29.2% of the respondents had been involved in a road traffic accident in the past 12 months by the time of the study. Factors that were independently associated with motorcycle accidents included riding experience of more than 8 years (p = 0.040), alcohol use (p = 0.040), slippery roads (p = 0.020) and pot holes on roads (p = <0.001). Moreover, participants acquired their riding skills from friends (64.9%) or self-trained (33.6%). It can be concluded that motorcycle accidents is still a major public health problem in the study area due to the recorded high rate. Thus, it is recommended that all motorcyclists should be well trained and issued with riding license after attending formal training, and strict penalties imposed against anybody contravening road traffic rules. Moreover, roads should be continuously improved to reduce accident rates.

Compliance of commercial motorcycle riders with road safety regulations in a peri-urban town of Ghana.

BackgroundWhile motorcycles are essential for moving people and goods, they are also, a significant contributor to Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs), making it a public health issue of concern globally. The Hohoe Municipal Hospital records increasing RTAs due to commercial motorcycles. Determining motorcycle riders’ compliance with road safety regulations is critical in helping to curb this menace.MethodA cross-sectional study was employed involving a multistage sample of 238 motorcycle riders. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire and entered into Epi Data version 3.2 software and exported to STATA software version 12 for analysis. Descriptive and inferential analyses were done while statistical significance was determined at 95% reliability interval and p-value of 0.05.FindingsThe level of compliance with road safety regulations among respondents was 59.2%. The mean age of respondents was 29.9 ± 7.9 years, and all respondents were males. Respondents who did not own their motorbikes were 0.39 times less likely to comply with road safety regulations compared to their counterparts who owned one, while those without alternate occupations were 0.51times less likely to comply with road safety regulations compared to those with an additional occupation. Those aged between 30–39 years and 40–49 years were 2.37 and 4.1 times more likely to comply with road safety regulations, respectively, compared to those aged ≤29 years, and those who did not smoke were 3.15 times more likely to comply with road safety regulations than those who smoked.ConclusionCompliance to safety regulations are fairly low and although motorcycle usage on a commercial basis is yet to be legalised in Ghana, routine education targeting riders who smoke, do not have alternate occupations, do not own motorbikes and younger riders will improve their compliance. Also, riders should be encouraged to obtain their license from the appropriate authorities.

Prevalence of crashes and associated factors among commercial motorcycle riders in Bamenda, Cameroon

IntroductionCrash-related injury and fatality tends to be disproportionately higher among motorcycle riders compared to other types of motor vehicle users due to the absence of passive safety vehicle components of other vehicles. MethodsA population-based cross-sectional study among consenting commercial motorcycle riders conducted in Bamenda, Cameroon estimated the prevalence (commercial motorcycling lifetime and past 12-months) of self-reported crashes and examined contributing factors associated with crashes. ResultsAmong 552 participants, 77.4% self-reported a crash over lifetime as a commercial motorcycle rider. The prevalence of self-reported crash within the past 12 months was 21.5%. The odds of lifetime crash involvement were higher among riders with 3-4 years (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 2.14; 95% CI = 1.14–4.01) or five years (AOR = 3.15; 95% CI = 1.73–5.73) of riding experience who typically carried more than two passengers (AOR = 3.57; 95% CI = 1.18–10.84). After adjusting for age, education level, marital status, and smoking status, riders were at increased odds of a self-reported severe crash of single-vehicle collision type if they typically used alcohol (AOR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.22–3.76), rode on roads that were unpaved (AOR = 4.33, 95% CI = 2.50–7.52), muddy (AOR = 5.90, 95% CI = 1.60–21.73) or pothole-ridden (AOR = 2.41, 95% CI = 1.18–4.95), and at estimated speeds of 45 km/h or more (AOR = 2.55, 95%CI = 1.28–5.09). ConclusionOccurrences of road traffic crashes are frequent among commercial motorcycle riders who use alcohol, typically carry multiple passengers, speed, and ride on poor road conditions. Intervention efforts should focus on strategies to minimize crash-related injuries and fatalities by improving rider safety, infrastructure, and implementing effective road traffic policies.

Prevalence of early morning alcohol consumption among commercial motorcyclists and its health consequences in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria

Alcohol is classified among legal substances, but its excess consumption can result in road traffic accidents via impairing psychomotor activity and concentration. This study investigated the prevalence of early morning alcohol consumption and its health consequences among commercial motorcycle (Okada) riders in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Systematic sampling technique was used to recruit subjects for this study. Cutting down alcohol; annoyed by comments on alcohol; guilt of alcohol use; early morning use of alcohol; eye opener (CAGE) questionnaire was used to estimate the prevalence of problematic alcohol use among Okada riders in Ado Ekiti. One hundred and seven Okada riders were assessed. Majority of them were young adults. Majority of the riders know another rider who have had a serious road traffic accident riding Okada in the past 12months and 29% of them know a rider who had died riding Okada in the past 12months. About 28.6% of them admit early morning alcohol consumption. Suppression of cold (45.5%), keeping awake (19.4%) and peer group effect (14.5%) were the major identified factors influencing them to use alcohol. The commonest types of injuries sustained were bruises and lacerations (51.1%) and fractures of upper and lower limbs (18.7%). The early morning alcohol consumption among Okada riders contributed to road traffic accidents in Ekiti state, Nigeria.

Prevalence and patterns of traumatic bone loss following open long bone fractures at Mulago Hospital.

Introduction:Significant traumatic bone loss in developed countries occurs in a high proportion of open fractures ranging from 11.4% to 40%. However, literature from developing countries such as Uganda scarcely documents the prevalence and patterns of traumatic bone loss. Direct trauma and iatrogenic factors have been associated with traumatic bone loss as possible etiologies.Objective:The study was aimed at establishing the prevalence and patterns of traumatic bone loss following open long bone fractures, and identifying factors associated with traumatic bone loss among patients presenting to Mulago Hospital within 24 hours of sustaining the injury up to completion of the initial fracture debridement, reduction, and fixation.Methodology:It was a prospective cohort study conducted at Mulago Hospital. A total of 136 open long bone fractures were registered and physically examined for traumatic bone loss. Patients who consented were recruited consecutively to participate in the study. Data on the patients’ sociodemographics and fracture patterns were collected using pretested questionnaires and analyzed using Stata version 12.Results:From 123 patients, a total of 136 open long bone fractures were registered. The prevalence of traumatic bone loss following open long bone fractures was 26.5%. Of the 36 open long bone fractures with traumatic bone loss, the more common pattern (61.1%) was significant traumatic bone loss (≥ 2.5 cm long). Commercial motorcycle riders (22.0%) and traders (20.3%) were the most common occupations associated with open long bone fractures. Gunshot injuries were the leading cause of traumatic bone loss in open long bone fractures.Conclusion:Our setting has a high prevalence of traumatic bone loss among open long bone fractures with the majority occurring in Gustilo type IIIB injuries of the tibia. The likelihood of traumatic bone loss is higher in open fractures caused by gunshots.

Predictors of knowledge and practice of prostate cancer screening among commercial motorcyclists in Ilesa Town in Southwestern Nigeria

Background: In Nigeria, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men. Nigeria men are ignorant of the risk factors for the disease despite rising prevalence, despite the country's movement toward a demographically aging population. For a measurable change in behaviors, it is important to assess existing knowledge to inform policy and programmatic decisions. Objective: This study was undertaken to determine the predictors of knowledge and practice of prostate cancer screening among commercial motorcyclists in Ilesa town of Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 400 eligible commercial motorcycle riders selected using the multistage sampling method. Research instrument used were semi-structured pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 17.0. Results: Mean age of respondents was 39.5 ± 2.4 years. Fifty-seven percent and 27.6% were aware of prostate cancer and prostate cancer screening, respectively, with the mass media being the source of information. Fifty-seven percent had poor mean knowledge while 63.0% had good mean attitude toward prostate cancer screening. Although only 3%have gone for prostate cancer screening before, about 95% were willing to go for prostate cancer screening test. Age, marital status, and education status were all significantly associated with good knowledge and practice of prostate cancer screening (P

Hazard Perception and Demand for Insurance among Selected Motorcyclists in Lagos, Nigeria

This study examines hazard perception effects on the demand for insurance with special focus on motorcycle riders in Lagos state. For this purpose, the researchers have been able to examine selected hazard perception determinants and their effects on the insuring attitude and desire of motorcycle riders. An explanatory research design was employed and a convenience sampling type of the nonprobability sampling technique was adopted. Data was gathered by interviews conducted at motorcycle parks along the Lagos-Badagry expressway. The sample consisted of 126 respondents made up of commercial motorcycle riders within the sample areas. Data collected was analysed using multiple regression technique. The study was able to establish some level of contributory linkage between hazard perception and demand for motorcycle insurance. The findings show that while dread and trust both appeared to have significant effect, publicity and controllability both have positive contributory effect; furthermore, choice expressed an inverse relationship with demand for insurance among the motorcycle riders. The study therefore recommends pre-loss and post-loss measures among the motorcycle riders so that unforeseen motorcycle risks can be managed. Also, insurance companies should endeavour to invest more on enlightening the motorcycle riders in order to lessen their dread of loss outcome, and thus, design policy that can instil trust in motorcycle riders in insurance as a loss control measure.

Motorcycles Health and Traffic Safety: Evidence from Commercial Motorcyclists in Gombe State, Nigeria

<p>Although commercial motorcyclists are gaining acceptance by all and sundry as a means of public transport which are adapted to the contemporary Nigerian society. However, expose to all hazards including accidents are further worsened by the lack of proper knowledge on road safety measures of the commercial motorcycle riders. Therefore, this study evaluates the effects of a commercial motorcycle on health and traffic safety in Gombe metropolis, Gombe State, Nigeria. The study was carried out in Gombe Metropolis with using the random sampling technique to select 500 motorcyclists sample size. The data generated were analyzed using simple percentages. The study finds that most of the motorcycles accidents were caused by reckless riding, drug abuse and disregard to traffic rules. Similarly, the study finds that Tricycles are the most important factor causing motorcycle accidents in Gombe metropolis. Furthermore, the study finds that most of the respondents suffer from at least one health challenge as a result of their continuous use of the motorcycle. The study therefore recommends that government and other relevant agencies should be equipped with materials and human resources to embark on regular and massive breath testing of motorcyclists to detect riders who ride under the influence of drugs. This can be achieved through identifying the Drunken riders and make them face the wrath of the law.</p>

Exhaled carbon monoxide: a non-invasive biomarker of short-term exposure to outdoor air pollution

BackgroundIn urban settings of Africa with rapidly increasing population, traffic-related air pollution is a major contributor to outdoor air pollution (OAP). Although OAP has been identified as a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, there is however, lack of a simple biomarker to assess levels of exposure to OAP in resource-poor settings. This study evaluated the role of exhaled carbon monoxide (exhCO) as a potential biomarker of exposure to ambient carbon monoxide (ambCO) from OAP.MethodsThis was a descriptive study conducted among male commercial motorcycle riders in Cotonou – the economic capital of Benin. The participants’ AmbCO was measured using a portable carbon monoxide (CO) data logger for 8 h during the period of their shift. ExhCO was measured just before and immediately after their shift (8-h) Participants were asked not to cook or to smoke during the day of the measurements. Linear regression analysis was used to assess the association between ambCO and exhCO for the last 2, 4 and 6 h of their shift.ResultsOf 170 participants who completed the study, their mean ± SD age was 42.2 ± 8.4 years, and their mean ± SD daily income was 7.3 ± 2.7$. Also, 95% of the participants’ used solid fuels for cooking and only 2% had ever smoked. Average exhCO increased by 5.1 ppm at the end of the shift (p = 0.004). Post-shift exhCO was significantly associated to ambCO, this association was strongest for the last 2 h of OAP exposure before exhCO measurement (β = 0.34, p < 0.001).ConclusionExhCO level was associated with recent exposure to ambCO from OAP with measurable increase after 8 h of exposure. These findings suggest that ExhCO may be a potential biomarker of short-term exposure to OAP.