DOCS: HELMET USE MUST TO AVOID INJURY

Accidents are the major cause of head injuries, and on World Head Injury Awareness Day, observed on Wednesday, doctors advised motorists to not ignore the helmet rules being enforced by the state government.

The Indian Head Injuries Foundation insists that along with the driver, pillion riders must also wear helmets.

Doctors are going all out to promote awareness on the issue due to a drastic increase in the number of deaths due to head injuries. In 1980, the number of people killed in road traffic accidents in India was 24,600; in 1991, it was 60,000. The number increased to 1,00,000 in 2012. In Hyderabad, the road accidents recorded in 2012 were 2,577 of which 464 led to deaths.

Neurosurgeon Dr Jagdish Chattnalli says, “One out of six trauma victims have serious head injuries. Research has now shown that neurological damage occurs at the moment of impact which can be a very primary injury. The damage progresses during the ensuing time when the patient is taken to the hospital, diagnosed and treated. The second brain injury can be caused during that time leading to mortality or severe disability.”

“Victims must be handled carefully. Also the state government must be strict in implementing the helmet rule and not allowing triple-riding on bikes,” said neurosurgeon Dr Vemula Sreekanth.

Doctors advise motorists not to ignore rules framed by the goverment that can potentially save their lives