Citation

Bener A, Norman JN, Brebner J, Achan NV, Al-Falasi AS. J. Traffic Med. 1998; 26(3-4): 109-114.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1998, International Association for Accident and Traffic Medicine)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Objective: To shed some light on the asthmatic condition and medication associated with road traffic accidents (RTAs) in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Methods: A prospective study at Al-Ain Medical Health District involved driver patients aged 18 years and above who were seen for accidents and trauma during the period 1 January to 31 December 1994. The main outcome measures were asthma severity as causes (associated) of the trauma. Results: 1,395 vehicle drivers were seen and treated, but only 1,261 drivers (90.3%) responded to the study. Fifty-three drivers (4.2%) had asthmatic conditions in association with RTAs, a higher proportion being relevant for motorways. Fifty-four percent admitted driving at excessive speeds, 30% smoke while driving, 34% use phones while driving and have a child in the front seat, and 28% had been previously involved in RTAs. 40.9% had at least one asthmatic attack within each month. A comparison of drivers showed a significantly higher risk for careless driving [RR=2.06; 95% CI=1.21-3.48, p lt 0.007] and speed violations [RR=2.97; 95% CI=1.66-5.33; p lt 0.0002] among asthmatic drivers. However, property damage, alcohol and drugs did not show significant association with accident risk. Conclusion: More public awareness needs to be drawn to the dangers of driving while having difficulty with asthmatic conditions.