Traumatic head injury is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Survivors of such injuries are often challenged by their physical limitations and can feel awkward in social environments. March 20th marks the observance of World Head Injury Awareness Day every year, where the focus is on the scope of mild and severe head injuries. The aim of this day is to remind us how we can prevent accidents and minimize brain damage by being cautious. The campaign emphasizes the importance of wearing safety equipment like helmets and seat belts, which can help prevent head injuries in situations of accidents.
Annually, over 5% of individuals worldwide experience a severe brain injury either due to an accident or the inadvertent bumping of the head. As such, this day aims to educate and raise awareness globally on how minor injury to the brain can detrimentally impact your life’s overall quality.
Causes of Head Injury
The three most common causes of head injury are motor vehicle accidents (50%), falls (25%), and violence (20%).
Complications of Head Injuries
Sustaining a head injury can lead to detrimental effects on our brain, the vital component of our central nervous system. It is essential to provide prompt care and treatment as the lack of immediate attention could cause long-lasting damage. It is important to note that even minor cases should not be ignored as they too can have severe consequences if left untreated.
Brain damage can result from head injuries, even if the skull is not crushed. Failure to wear a helmet during contact sports or other high-risk activities could result in partial or full paralysis or death. It is imperative for individuals to take precautionary measures to prevent head injuries, as they may lead to severe complications.
Prevention of Head Injuries
We are all aware of various precautions that can protect our heads from harm, but sometimes we tend to forget about them. Making sure to fasten our helmets and seat belts while driving can significantly lower the risk of brain and head injury. Similarly, donning helmets during sports activities can also help in reducing the likelihood of brain damage.
Recommendations
- Always wear a seat belt when in a motor vehicle
- Use an appropriate child safety seat
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Always wear a helmet when on a bicycle, motorcycle, or scooter
- Use the rails on stairways
- Provide adequate lighting on the stair for people with poor vision
- Do not place obstacles on pathways
- Provide the correct safety equipment for workers
- Abide by traffic rules, and do not jump signals
- Do not use mobile phones while driving
You can avoid the chances of head injury and disability caused by it by being mindful of your surroundings.
