The public perception of head injury in Missouri

Head injury constitutes a significant public health concern. Despite increasing recognition of the morbidity and mortality associated with head injury, there exist few statewide estimations of the prevalence and public perception of head injury. Knowledge of the public's perception can facilitate the funding and planning for the treatment and rehabilitation of persons with head injury. This study was undertaken for this purpose by the Missouri Head Injury Advisory Council and consisted of a stratified sampling of 1123 Missourians in a statewide telephone poll. The results revealed that the general public has an accurate perception of head injury and that knowledge improved as a function of direct experience with head injury.