31/03/2026
Cyclists face a high risk of brain injury in traffic accidents
While traffic accidents cause up to 59% of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) worldwide, a study by Baker et al. (2022) in the UK found that a staggering 95% of cyclists involved in collisions sustained injuries, with nearly 40% experiencing a TBI.
Helmet use plays a critical protective role. Cyclists wearing helmets showed significantly lower rates of TBI, skull fractures, and subdural haemorrhage compared to those without helmets, adding to the growing body of evidence supporting helmet use.
Interestingly, the study found no significant difference in cycling speed between helmeted and non-helmeted individuals. However, the change in velocity during impact was strongly associated with injury severity. Greater impact forces increased the risk of moderate-to-severe TBI and other intracranial injuries.
Since concussions are often invisible at the scene, immediate detection remains a major clinical challenge. Medicortex Finland Plc is bridging this gap by developing a rapid diagnostic test to identify TBI at the point of injury. Fast and accurate detection is the first step toward a successful recovery. Learn more about our mission at: www.medicortex.fi
Based on: Baker et al., 2022, Brain Communications