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A Multi-Modal Approach to Assessing Recovery in Youth Athletes Following Concussion
Published on: September 25, 2014
13.8K
Canadians Reporting Sport-Related Concussions: Increasing and Now Stabilizing
Kevin E Gordon1, Stefan Kuhle2
1Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics; and.
Summary
Sport-related concussions in Canada saw a significant increase from 2005 to 2014, particularly in youth. Rates appear to have stabilized recently, possibly due to better recognition and reporting of these brain injuries.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sports Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Canada is implementing national strategies for sport-related concussion prevention and management.
- Understanding concussion incidence is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the annual incidence rates of sport-related concussions or other brain injuries in Canada.
- To examine trends in concussion reporting over nearly two decades.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (2000-2018).
- Employed a serial cross-sectional survey design with a large, population-based sample (N=757,383).
- Analyzed self-reported concussions or other brain injuries sustained during sports or physical activities.
Main Results:
- A nearly 2.5-fold increase in annual concussion incidence was observed from 2005/06 to 2013/14 (P < 0.0001).
- Incidence rates appear to have stabilized between 2013/14 and 2017/8 (P = 0.35).
- The trend was similar for males and females, primarily affecting youth (12-19 years).
Conclusions:
- Annual incidence rates of sport-related concussions are changing in Canada.
- Observed changes may indicate improved reporting and recognition of concussions and other brain injuries.
