4. The Children Concern: Concussions are Prevalent Among Kids
Moving on, it’s important to acknowledge a group that is particularly susceptible to concussions: children. Children, especially those engaged in sports, have a high incidence rate of concussions.
Their boundless energy, curiosity, and lesser sense of danger make them prime candidates for falls and injuries, which can sometimes result in a concussion. According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury among children aged 0 to 4 years and adolescents aged 15 to 19 years.
Add to that the participation in sports, and the risk increases manifold. Children playing contact sports such as football, hockey, and soccer are at a higher risk. Even cycling accidents and playground injuries contribute significantly to pediatric concussion statistics.
It’s not just the higher incidence that’s a concern here. Children’s brains are still developing, and hence, a concussion can have a more profound effect on them. The injury can interfere with their brain’s normal developmental trajectory and result in cognitive, academic, and behavioral issues.
But here’s the crucial part: concussions in children are often underdiagnosed. Kids might not always be able to communicate their symptoms, and symptoms like balance issues might be dismissed as regular clumsiness. Hence, it’s important to be aware and observant to ensure that a potential concussion isn’t overlooked. (4)
