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Road traffic injury prevention in children in rural Bangladesh

Baset, Md.Kamran ul

Authors

Md.Kamran ul Baset



Abstract

Background
Childhood road traffic injuries (RTIs) are a major public health problem internationally; little research has been conducted on preventing childhood RTIs in Bangladesh.

Aim and Objectives
Aim: to develop a pilot intervention to reduce childhood RTIs in rural Bangladesh.
Objectives - to:
• determine the epidemiology of and risk factors for childhood RTIs
• explore community perceptions of childhood RTIs and their prevention
• develop a pilot package of preventive interventions and evaluate the package to assess its feasibility and acceptability

Methods:
Five studies were conducted using mixed methods. Study A examined the epidemiology of childhood RTIs using three data sources. Study B explored community perceptions through focus groups. Study C (school survey) investigated exposure to the road environment. A pilot intervention developed and implemented (study D), was evaluated for its feasibility and acceptability in rural communities (study E).

Results:
Studies A-C showed that RTIs are a growing problem, especially for rural child pedestrians. The rate of childhood RTIs mortality was three times higher in rural than urban areas (9.1 versus 2.7 per 100,000 children years). Pedestrians (42%) were the main victims in rural areas, with children aged 5-9 particularly vulnerable. Seven focus groups were conducted which provided insights into the causes of RTIs, e.g. Problems finding safe places to cross, poor supervision. The school survey showed that children lacked knowledge and skills about road crossing. Risk factors included gender, age, accompanying person, and travel mode.

The “Safe Child Pedestrian” pilot programme was developed and implemented in six schools, 36 school children aged 7-9 years were trained at the roadside by volunteers. The programme was feasible and acceptable for rural communities.

Conclusion:
The expansion of Bangladesh’s rural road network continues, with child pedestrian injuries increasing. Practical child pedestrian training is an initial step in engaging communities to reduce RTIs.

Achievement:
This is the first attempt to explore the situation of childhood RTIs in rural Bangladesh and develop, implement and evaluate a programme for child pedestrians.

Citation

Baset, M. U. Road traffic injury prevention in children in rural Bangladesh. (Thesis). University of the West of England. Retrieved from https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/929261

Thesis Type Thesis
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Keywords road traffic injury (RTIs), childhood RTIs, road traffic injury prevention, pedestrians, safe child pedestrian, community involvement, rural Bangladesh
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/929261
Award Date Aug 1, 2013

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