Citation

Reid DBC, Shah KN, Baum EJ, Daniels AH. R. I. Med. J. (2013) 2020; 103(7): 71-75.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Rhode Island Medical Society)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

32872696

Abstract

BACKGROUND: There is limited long-term epidemiological data focused on concussions in the United States.

METHODS: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was queried from 1997 to 2019 for concussion diagnoses. National incidence rates, stratified by age and sex, were estimated. Injury mechanisms were ranked.

RESULTS: From 1997 to 2019, there was a 3-fold increase in the diagnosis of concussion from 82,103 (95% CI 77,650-86,555) in 1997 to 261,722 (95% CI 212,156-311,288) in 2019 (p<0.001). Fall-related head-injury mechanisms were most common in very young (<5 year old) and older (>65 year old) patients. Sports-related injuries were most common in those age 5-24 years old.

CONCLUSIONS: It remains unclear if the observed two-decade rise in reported concussions represents a true increase in incidence or is indicative of improvements in early detection, diagnosis, and treatment during this time period. Common injury mechanisms described highlight the need for improved age-specific safety recommendations.

Language: en

Keywords

epidemiology; fall; concussion; head injury; sports