Understanding traumatic brain injury issues

Today's the first day of spring, so before you and your family head for the outdoors, it's a good time to review safety issues.

Perhaps it's appropriate that Brain Injury Awareness Month is celebrated this month.

The issue has become more important because of the war in Iraq, where many soldiers who might not have survived head injuries in earlier conflicts are now surviving, coming home to deal with the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury.

ABC television viewers have had a chance for an especially personal account, by news man Bob Woodruff, who suffered a TBI in January 2006.

We may not be exposed to the danger of roadside bombs, but our heads are just as vulnerable to injuries sustained in motorcycle, bicycle, roller-skating or other outdoor activities.

Some of the facts:

* 1.4 million people sustain a brain injury each year in the United States.

* Blasts are a leading cause of brain injury for active military personnel in war zones

* Major causes of brain injury are tumors, strokes, infections and shaken baby syndrome.

* In Nebraska, more than 3,000 brain injuries occur each year. Individuals and their families face challenges at home, school and work after a brain injury.

Long-term consequences of brain injury may include:

* Difficulty concentrating, organizing and learning new information.

* Loss of endurance and reduced coordination.

* Depression and difficulty managing anger.

If you or someone one love is affected by traumatic brain injury, consider participating in the second annual Nebraska Brain Injury Conference, "Rebuilding Lives in Nebraska," April 24-25 in Grand Island. Register online at www.braininjury.ne.gov

Better yet, avoid injury by making sure you and your family wear appropriate headgear when engaged in dangerous activities.