Traumatic Brain Injury in the United States

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an important public health problem
in the United States. TBI is frequently referred to as the “silent
epidemic” because the complications from TBI, such as changes
affecting thinking, sensation, language, or emotions, may not be
readily apparent. In addition, awareness about TBI among the
general public is limited.

Population-based data on TBI are critical to understanding the
impact of TBI on the American people. This report presents data on
TBI-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and
deaths for the years 2002 through 2006 and can be used to
determine the number of TBIs occurring each year, groups most
affected, and the leading causes of TBI. This important information
can be used to document the need for TBI prevention, to identify
research and education priorities, and to support the need for
services among individuals living with a TBI.