World Head Injury Awareness Day: “More Than My Brain Injury”

Head injury is a devastating condition that can cause major psychosocial complications.
 
Many people suffer serious brain injuries that are largely viewed as inconsequential, but in reality such injuries cause devastating impairments that destroy lives just as effectively as injuries that are considered more severe.
 
Every year, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) impact millions of lives globally, making them a leading cause of disability and mortality.
 
World Head Injury Awareness Day, observed annually on March 20, seeks to educate the public about the significance of traumatic head injuries. The theme for 2024 is “More Than My Brain Injury,” emphasising the challenges faced by survivors beyond the injury itself.
 
The theme highlights the importance of preventive measures, urging the correct use of safety gear such as helmets and seat belts. By promoting safety practices, the campaign aims to reduce the occurrence of head injuries, emphasising the role of protective measures in preventing damage during accidents.
 
Traumatic brain injuries encompass a spectrum of conditions caused by external trauma to the scalp, skull, or brain. This can range from mild concussions to severe injuries, and can result from various incidents, including accidents, falls, and violence. The global annual incidence of TBIs is 220 per 100 000, highlighting the widespread impact on individuals and communities.
 

Categories and symptoms of head injuries:

Head injuries can be categorised as traumatic or non-traumatic, with severity ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms vary from superficial wounds to more severe indications such as loss of consciousness. Understanding the symptoms is crucial for timely intervention and appropriate medical care.
 

Common causes of head injuries:

• Motor vehicle, bicycle, or vehicle-pedestrian accidents (50%)
• Falls (25%)
• Violence (20%)

 
Addressing these common causes through increased awareness and adherence to safety guidelines is essential in mitigating the risk of head injuries.
 

How do you prevent head injury?

• Always wear a seat belt in a motor vehicle
• Use an appropriate child safety seat or a booster
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Always wear a helmet when on a bicycle, motorcycle, scooter and other open unrestrained vehicles
• Wear a helmet when participating in contact sports
• Wear a helmet when horseback riding
• Use the rails on stairways
• Provide adequate lighting, especially on stairs for people with poor vision or who have difficulty walking
• Place bars on windows to prevent children from falling
• Sit on safe stools
• Do not place obstacles in walking pathways
• Keep guns locked in a cabinet
• Store guns unloaded
• Store ammunition apart from guns

 
World Head Injury Awareness Day serves as a reminder to prioritise safety and take proactive measures to prevent head injuries. By understanding the impact of TBIs and implementing safety practices, we can contribute to a safer environment.