1 in 5 Aussies injured on roads and paths are cyclists

Your weekly dose of evidence

The number of cycling accidents in Australia is steadily rising, particularly among middle-aged men, according to new data released this week. Cyclists make up a fraction of road and path users, yet account for one in five transport-related hospitalisations a year, as Marilyn Johnson explains. Most cycling injuries are fractures, but some are more severe and claim an average of 38 lives per year.

Fron Jackson-Webb

Deputy Editor/Senior Health + Medicine Editor

To reduce the risk of accidents, cyclists can wear bright clothing, use lights and steer clear of car doors, where possible. Maxpro/Shutterstock

3 Charts on the rise in cycling injuries and deaths in Australia

Marilyn Johnson, Monash University

Cyclists account for one in five hospitalisations for transport-related injures in Australia. And around 38 cyclists are killed each year.

From the archives: cycling

Slow cycling isn’t just for fun – it’s essential for many city workers

Malini Sur, Western Sydney University

Cycling is a low-cost and non-polluting way to make deliveries in congested cities. Slow cyclists should be recognised as good for the economy and environment, not treated like second-class citizens.

Electric bikes can boost older people’s mental performance and their well-being

Louise-Ann Leyland, UCL; Ben Spencer, Oxford Brookes University; Carien van Reekum, University of Reading; Tim Jones, Oxford Brookes University

The use of electric bikes can be tied to improved clarity of thought, faster reaction times and a boost in mental well-being.

Cycle, walk, drive or train? Weighing up the healthiest (and safest) ways to get around the city

Hassan Vally, La Trobe University

What's your risk of dying if you cycle to work, versus the health benefits? What about walking, or driving, or catching a train? Here are the risks and benefits.

People take to their bikes when we make it safer and easier for them

Melanie Crane, University of Sydney; Chris Rissel, University of Sydney; Christopher Standen, University of Sydney; Stephen Greaves, University of Sydney

The evidence suggests a small investment in cycling infrastructure, combined with less punitive policing, would enable more Australians to escape daily traffic congestion.

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Curious Kids: what is brain freeze?

David Farmer, University of Melbourne

There are several different science ideas around why, but the answer may have something to do with what happens when we cool down the roof of our mouth.

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Although a US study found a spike in teen suicides after 13 Reasons Why first aired on Netflix, rates of suicide are generally on the rise. The last thing we should do is shy away from the show.