Every March, the Brain Injury Association of America leads the annual Brain Injury Awareness campaign. During the month, they work and advocate to raise awareness about brain injuries, their causes, effects, and prevention. Reports estimate that over 5 million Americans live with permanent challenges of a brain injury-related disability. That is approximately one in every 60 people. Due to the importance of the brain and the seriousness of brain injuries, everyone should be aware of how these injuries occur and how to reduce them.
What is a Brain Injury?
Brain injury is damage to the brain that affects a person’s physical, cognitive, or emotional well-being. An Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) can be a result of birth defects, strokes, infectious diseases, or tumors. A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can result from a physical hit or blow to the head, often as a result of falls, motor vehicle accidents, assaults, or sports injuries.
Who is it happening to?
- The highest rate of injury happens to those between the ages of 15-24
- Adults 65 and older are at risk due to falls
- Children under the age of five
- Males are more likely to incur a brain injury
How can you avoid brain injury?
- Always use seatbelts and child safety seats when riding in vehicles
- Wear helmets during sports and other recreational activities
- Remove hazards in the home that may contribute to falls
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Improve balance and strength with regular physical activity
- Keep all firearms and ammunition locked away safely and separately
