Use of Child Restraint Systems in Thailand and Factors associated with it: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: To determine the use of child restraint systems among caregivers of children in Thailand and to identify factors associated with it. Materials and Methods: Caregivers of children under 12 years old who utilized medical services at Lampang Hospital between March 2023 and March 2024 were asked to participate in this cross-sectional study. Data on characteristics of child and caregiver, driving behavior, and knowledge about child restraint systems were collected via a questionnaire. Multivariable regression was applied to analyze associated factors. Results: Of the 322 eligible caregivers, 279 (86.6%) participated, of which 127(44.5%) used a child restraint system. A higher caregiver education level (odds ratio [OR] 2.28, 95% CI 1.18; 4.39), and driving 3–7 days per week (OR 3.92, 95% CI 1.82; 8.40) were associated with more frequent restraint use. A higher age of the child (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.96; 0.98) was associated with less frequent restraint use. Conclusion: Fewer than half of the caregivers utilized child restraint systems. Higher caregiver education levels and more frequent driving were associated with more frequent use, while older child age was associated with less frequent use of child restraint systems. Targeted interventions are needed to improve the use of child restraint systems.