|
Brain Injury Incidence & Prevalence
According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control
and Injury Prevention, it now is estimated that there are 5.3 million
children and adults living with the consequences of sustaining a traumatic
brain injury in the United States. This number represents nearly 2
percent of the U.S. population. TBI does not discriminate. It
can happen to a child or adult of any age, gender, race, religion or
socioeconomic status. The risk of TBI is highest among adolescents, young
adults and persons over the age of 75.
In comparing the national prevalence rate for TBI of 5.3 million with
other more commonly cited and discussed conditions and disabilities, it is
easily understood why TBI is often referred to as the "silent
epidemic." Examples of other prevalence rates are as follows:
- 400,000 with Spinal Cord Injuries
- 500,000 with Cerebral Palsy
- 2.3 million with Epilepsy
- 3.0 million with Stroke Disabilities
- 4.0 million with Alzheimer’s Disease
- 5.3 Million with TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
- 5.4 million with Persistent Mental Illness
- 7.2 million with Mental Retardation
An estimated TWO MILLION people sustain a traumatic brain injury each
year and someone will sustain a brain injury every 15 seconds.
An estimated ONE MILLION people are treated for TBI and released from
hospital emergency departments each year.
Each year 230,000 Americans are hospitalized as a result of a TBI.
Each year 80,000 Americans experience the onset of long term
disability as a result of sustaining a traumatic brain injury.
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 TBIs.
Falls are the second leading cause of TBI and the leading cause of
brain injury in the elderly.
Violence is also a major cause of brain injury.
- For more information contact:
Brain Injury Association, Inc.
105 North Alfred Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.236.6000 www.biausa.org
Creating a better future through brain injury
prevention, research, education and advocacy
|
