Statistics and Causes of mTBI and Concussion
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention over 2.5 million traumatic brain injuries occur in the United States each year, and most of these are considered mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI), or concussions. The actual number of annual concussions may be much higher because up to half may go unreported. Falls, being struck by an object, and motor vehicle accidents are thought to be the most common causes of traumatic brain injury, in general. However, it is estimated that up to 3.8 million concussions occur in the United States during sports and recreational activities each year. Risk factors for concussion include participation in contact sports, unsafe driving practices, and employment in certain occupations.
Service members are at an increased risk for concussion compared to civilian peers. Refer to the Military page for more information.
Concussions can be caused by any event involving a jolt or bump to the head, neck, or body that causes forceful rapid movement of the head. Some common causes include:
- Falls
- Sports (especially contact sports)
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Blasts
- Assault
