Study Reveals Significant Increase in Concussion Diagnoses

According to recent research published by the University of California, San Francisco, concussion rates among U.S. children are increasing rapidly.

According to an analysis of health insurance claims for more than nine million Americans, concussion diagnoses increased by more than double between 2007 and 2014.

The most significant growth occurred among children ages 10 to 14, whose injury rate more than tripled. The data indicated that this age group experienced concussion injuries at a rate of 10.5 per 1,000 patients. Teens ages 15 through 19 followed closely behind, with an injury rate of 16.5 per 1,000 patients.

Over time, children ages 10 to 14 also showed the most significant increase in concussion diagnoses. Throughout the length of the study, concussion rates among this group increased by 243 percent, compared to a 160 percent increase among all age groups and 187 percent among older teens.

Although a number of past studies have focused on concussion rates among teen athletes, this was the first to focus on the general public as a whole.

Unfortunately, the study was not able to identify the cause of the concussions, although the lead researcher on the study indicated that they are most likely the result of sports injuries and recreational activities.

It also remains unclear if this significant increase in concussion diagnoses is a result of increased injuries, increased awareness and diagnoses, or both. Sport-related concussions have received growing attention in recent years. Since 2009, all 50 states, including Washington, D.C., have introduced laws focused on concussion safety.

If your child has suffered a concussion because of another’s negligence, you may have a legal claim. Contact the experienced brain injury lawyers at PKSD for a free, no obligation consultation to learn more about your legal options.

Call 414-333-3333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form to discuss your claim with a Milwaukee personal injury lawyer at PKSD.