The economy in Vietnam is booming. This is particularly apparent in the streets. Each day more than 300 motorbikes are newly registered in Hanoi. Traffic is terrible and growing worse.
Injuries are Vietnam s leading cause of premature death.
Half of the emergency department visits are traffic injuries. Half of these traffic injuries involve a head injury. Sadly, less than one percent of the motorbike riders or their passengers wear helmets. Besides, they say, helmets areuncomfortable, heavy, and too hot for Vietnam s tropical climate. Some of their criticisms are understandable, but good helmets can be designed and promotion programs can be launched.