STUDY SAYS A SINGLE HEAD INJURY IN CHILDHOOD CAN INCREASE RISK OF LATER PROBLEMS

Scientists from Indiana University, Oxford University, and other international
research institutions wrapped up a
cohort study in late 2016 to review head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries
(TBI), in childhood and early adulthood. A TBI disrupts the normal function
of the brain when a person receives a bump, blow, jolt or penetration
to the head.

The study followed more than a million people for up to 41 years. Although
the study was selective to Swedish residents, research leaders say the
results have been helpful in identifying and preparing for the long-term
effects of TBI. The group attempted to link factors relating to poor education,
inability to work, and early death with the injury. Researchers concluded
that those who’d had a head injury were more likely to:

  • receive a disability pension
  • be treated for psychiatric illness
  • not have secondary school qualifications
  • have died before the age of 41

The study also suggests that children, those with more severe head injuries,
and those who had more than one head injury were more likely to be affected
in the future. Conclusions advise that those individuals “should
be monitored for signs of problems later in life so that they can be helped
to avoid some of the potential consequences.”

REDUCE YOUR CHILD’S RISK OF TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY

Each year, TBIs contribute to an alarming number of deaths and cases of
permanent disability in Indiana. Latest statistics (2014) show that 1,108
residents died of TBI injuries, a slight increase than previously reported numbers.

Adolescents (and young adults) had the highest rates of motor vehicle-related
TBIs, while the youngest children were at highest risk for sustaining
fall or accident related TBIs. The Indiana State Department of Health’s
Division of Trauma and Injury Prevention has identified these suggested
activities to prevent TBI for the children in your life.

    1. Buckling your child in the car using a size and age-appropriate child safety
      seat, booster seat, or seat belt.
    2. Making sure your children wear helmets while bicycling and playing contact sports
    3. Making living areas safer through home modifications, such as:
      • Removing tripping hazards like throw rugs and clutter in walkways
      • Using nonslip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors
      • Installing handrails on stairways
    4. Making living areas safer for children by installing window guards to keep
      them from falling out of open windows and using safety gates at the top
      and bottom of stairs when young children are around
    5. Making sure the surface on your child’s playground is made of shock-absorbing
      material, such as hardwood, mulch or sand

The results of this peer reviewed study show that many head and brain injuries
can have serious long-term effects on children as they grow and can be
life altering. Proving the effects of these injuries in court can often
be difficult, but our team utilizes a specialized neuropsychological testing
facility and gathers the evidence we need to secure the largest amount
of compensation possible.

Stephen Wagner and Jason Reese can handle your traumatic brain injury claim
with years of experience and proven results. Call the law firm of Wagner
Reese today (888) 204-8440 for your FREE consultation!