Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) The Silent Killer
A human brain weighs 3-pound (1.4-kilogram) and consistency is a mass of jelly-like fats and tissues. There are at least one trillion nerve cells working to coordinate the mental and physical, that which sets humans apart from other species. Thus by far making this one of the most complex anatomy. Photograph by Fred Hossler of Getty Images supplied by National Geographic
Thrill seeking has become exceedingly popular within the last two decades and, it seems that new ways to achieve that excitement are introduced everyday, a good indication why (TBI) is on the rise. However, we must be fair, just because there are more dare devils on this planet, this is not the only explanation for the escalating numbers in (TBI), many are caused by auto accidents, falls, assaults during muggings or robberies and combat due to war. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) (April 1, 2008) reports that 5.3 million Americans, approximately 2% of the United States population, currently have long-term if not lifelong needs in assistance to get through the day. Statistics are staggering when we look at the number of deaths due to (TBI). Approximately 50,000 people in the United States will die annually from the cause of a (TBI), that may have been prevented if treated and diagnosed properly. Are we prepared as a nation, family or medical community to contend with this ever-growing disease? Again, according to (CDC) Centers for Disease Control, in the United States alone the estimated direct and indirect medical costs in reduced productivity due to (TBI) totaled an estimated $60 billion in 2000 and the dollar amount continues to grow to this day. The CDC has been charged with supplying annual reports to Congress to show these numbers making it imperative to cause public awareness in the prevention of these incidents. The highest risk groups are ages 0-4 certainly for
References: Emmons, Natasha and Tim O’Brien “Goliath Death Termed Accident” Amusement Business 113.32 August 13, 2001. Retrieved June 20, 2009. http://find.galegroup.com/ips/start.do?prodid=ips For Every Blow to the Head, Quick Action Is Urged; Symptoms may not be noticeable but fatal brain damage can occur (June 14, 2009), Consumer Health News (English), p http://find.galegroup.com/ips/start.do?prodid=ips Traumatic Brain Injury (CDC) Centers for Disease Control (2008) Retrieved May 8, 2009 http://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/tbi_concussion.htm AHL-American Health Line (2009). Retrieved June 17, 2009 http://www.amercanhealthline.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com./article.aspx.s=403