Vardy, T.C.1, Dombroski, R.T.2
- Cambridge University, Department of Clinical Neurosciences 2. University of North Texas
Concussion (mTBI) is usually associated with sporting activities and football players in AFL, Rugby League, Rugby Union and Soccer. Concussion is also associated with motor sports, horse racing, cricket, martial arts and equestrian. However, the greatest incidence of mTBI occurs in general life from road accidents, blunt trauma from accidental events and interpersonal actions. mTBI is a contributing factor to 30.5% of all injury-related deaths; predominantly males.
Concussion starts from an early age and is cumulative. Recent studies have indicated that except for obvious head injuries on the sporting field, >95% of mTBIs are cumulative effects of earlier events.
Traumatic brain injuries suffered in sport and recreational activities are often referred to as an Invisible Disease or Silent Epidemic. Many of these events remain undiagnosed or do not result in doctor or hospital visits. There are many reasons for not reporting a head injury – warrior attitude, insurance, loss of income, effect on ability to perform and future rank eg. military and police service.
The effect of concussion on developing adolescent brains is of particular concern. In America over the 10 years to 2013, there was a 100% increase among 8 to 13 year-olds and a 200% increase in sports-related emergency room visits for concussion among 14 to 19 year-olds. In Australia roughly 20% of children playing sport are diagnosed with concussion.
As many as 50% of concussions go unreported.
mTBI – No two brain injuries are exactly the same. The effects of a brain injury are complex and vary significantly from person to person.
Similarities with Neurodegeneration – No two patients suffering neurodegeneration show exactly the same symptoms. The effects of neurodegeneration are complex and vary significantly from person to person. The effects of neurodegeneration depend on cause, age, gender, location and severity
More sophisticated brain scans (MRIs) are indicating that there are clear links between mTBI and Dementia. Recent MRI studies indicate that 30% of previously diagnosed Dementia are actually mTBI.
Keywords: Concussion, football, adolescents, children, neurodegeneration, Dementia