Definitions

Traumatic brain injury (TBI): is an insult to the brain, not of degenerative or congenital nature caused by an external physical force that may produce a diminished or altered state of consciousness, which results in an impairment of cognitive abilities or physical functioning. It can also result in the disturbance of behavioral or emotional functioning. Acquired brain injury (ABI): injury to the brain which is not hereditary, congenital or degenerative.

Scope of Traumatic Brain Injury

• An estimated 5.3 million Americans-a little more than 2% of the U.S. population-currently live with disabilities resulting from brain injury.
• It is estimated that one million people are treated for TBI and released from hospital emergency rooms every year.
• Each year, 80,000 Americans experience the onset of long-term disability following TBI.
• More than 50,000 people die every year as a result of TBI.
• Vehicle crashes are the leading cause of brain injury. They account for 50% of all TBI's.
• Falls are the second leading cause, and the leading cause of brain injury in the elderly.
• The risk of TBI is highest among adolescents, young adults and those older than 75.
• After one brain injury, the risk for a second injury is three times greater; after the second injury, the risk for a third injury is eight times greater.

Disclaimer: The information posted on this web site is not medical advice and should not be taken as medical advice. Information posted on this web site is for information purposes only. To obtain medical advice, please consult with your physician or schedule an appointment where a complete, detailed history of your specific case may be obtained.