In a groundbreaking study, published by PLOS Medicine, it was discovered that children who suffered minor traumatic brain injuries, or a concussion, are much more likely to suffer adverse physiological, academic, and psychosocial effects as they get older.
About the Study
This study was conducted as a group effort by scientists from Oxford University, Karolinksa Institute, and Indiana University. According to an article in the New York Times, researchers analyzed data regarding the health of individuals in Sweden.
The researchers utilized data from over 100,000 patients who had suffered a head injury before they turned 25. The scientists evaluated the information about these individuals over a period of 40 years and compared the profiles of the patient to their family members. The goal was to figure out if head injuries had an adverse effect into adulthood.
Results of the Study
The research showed some disconcerting results. In fact, the scientists concluded that the adults who were diagnosed with just one concussion during childhood were much more likely to receive medical-based disability payments. These individuals were also shown to be less likely to graduate from high school and attend college.
The most alarming discovery was that the adults who had suffered head trauma at a young age were two times more likely to die prematurely compared to one of their uninjured siblings.
A child who suffered multiple concussions or a severe TBA was also more likely to maintain physical and psychological symptoms compared to the individuals who only suffered a single concussion.
Even though these conclusions are a bit disheartening, there is a silver lining found by the research – the scientists found that those who suffered a concussion during their childhood didn’t show uncharacteristic physical or psychological disabilities when they reached adulthood.
Takeaways from the Study
Thanks to this study, it is clear that children should not completely avoid contact sports; however, steps need to be taken to help minimize the young person’s risk of sustaining a serious brain injury. While it is easy to link a mild traumatic brain injury to an athletic mishap, this is not the only cause of TBIs. The fact is, the leading cause of head injuries and concussions in young adults is vehicle accidents.
Tips to Help Avoid Car Accident Caused Brain Injuries
While no one can control the actions of other people on the road, there are steps you can take to help minimize the risk of suffering a head injury during an accident.
Three of the most effective strategies include:
- Buying a vehicle that has side-impact “curtain” airbags.
- Wearing your seat belt at all times.
- Wearing a helmet when on a motorcycle or bicycle.
The CDC has released information that more than half of the individuals between the ages of 13 and 44 who died in a vehicle accident in 2014 alone were not wearing their safety belt. This fact further solidifies the importance of always wearing your safety belt.
Also Read: Stay Out Of Court Or File A Case? What Is Best For Your Car Accident Claim?
Consult with a Professional New Jersey Personal lawyer Today
If you are injured in any type of accident, due to the negligence or recklessness of another person, contact the experienced Vineland personal Injury attorney at Rosner Law Offices, P.C. today.