These deficits can include partial to complete paralysis, cognitive, behavioral, and memory dysfunction, persistent vegetative state, and death. These last two are the most feared outcomes in cases of brain injury, however advances in trauma care have led to decreased rates for both in recent years. Beyond the obvious physical effects of brain injury, survivors frequently cope with depression, anxiety, loss of self esteem, altered personality, and in some cases, a lack of self-awareness by the injury survivor of any existing deficits. To go directly to a section, click on a topic below. TBI is a leading cause of death and disability in children and young adults.
Most deaths occur at the time of injury or within the first two hours of hospitalization.
Of those who survive their initial injury, approximately 70,000 to 90,000 will endure lifelong debilitating loss of function. An additional 2,000 will exist in a persistent vegetative state. Young men between the ages of 14 and 24 have the highest rate of injury. Males are more likely to suffer serious brain injuries than are females. To go directly to a section, click on a topic below.