Highlights:
-
Traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide
-
World Head Injury Awareness Day is observed annually on the 20th March to educate the general public about traumatic head injuries
-
The theme for 2021 and the following three years is “More Than My Brain Injury”
Survivors of head injury are often challenged with their physical limitations and can feel awkward in social environments. World Head Injury Awareness Day aims at providing awareness and educates the general public about traumatic head injuries.
Globally, the annual incidences and mortality from Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) are 220 per 100 000 per year, thereby being the leading cause of disability and mortality.
The theme, “More Than My Brain Injury”, promotes the correct usage of safety gadgets such as helmets and seat belts, which can prevent damage to the head when an accident is encountered.
What is a TBI ?
Head injuries are sustained when there is an external trauma to the scalp, skull or brain. They range from a mild bump and concussion to severe traumatic brain injury. They may be closed (no skull fracture) or penetrated (skull fracture and following brain injury). Most often, the head injuries result in the swelling of the brain that builds pressure inside the skull and leads to further brain damage.
Brain injuries can be categorized as traumatic and non-traumatic and rated as mild, moderate, or severe to indicate the severity of the injury.
Symptoms of head injuries range from superficial scalp wounds, swelling & bruising, nasal and ear bleeding/discharge, stiff neck to loss of consciousness, and even may lead to death.
The most common causes of head injury are:
- Motor Vehicle, Bicycle or Vehicle-Pedestrian Accidents (50%)
- Falls (25%), and
- Violence (20%)
Other causes like household accidents, outdoor injuries, and falls also contribute to head injuries. The central nervous system comprising of the brain contributes to the overall functioning of the body. Injury to this prime organ may affect one’s health and wellbeing adversely, especially when the treatment is not delivered in time. Complications like loss of memory to severe paralysis, and even death may result from a head injury.
Safety Tips To Avoid Head Injuries
- Ensure wearing a seat belt when driving / in a motor vehicle
- Appropriate child safety seat should be made
- Avoid driving when under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Practice using a helmet when on a bicycle, motorcycle or scooter
- Using the rails on the stairways helps avoid head injuries due to falls
- The correct safety equipment for workers should be mandated
Filling one moment being mindful of our surroundings may help in avoiding lifetime regret to undergo living with a disability due to head injury.
Source: https://www.medindia.net/news/healthwatch/world-head-injury-awareness-day-more-than-my-brain-injury-200443-1.htm
