The NAS TBI Report

 Posted on February 10, 2009 in Uncategorized

National Academy of Sciences: Long-Term Consequences of Traumatic Brain Injury.

A few findings:

Sufficient evidence of an association between (among other things):

1. Moderate to severe TBI and long-term adverse social-function outcomes, particularly unemployment and diminished social relationships.

2. TBI and depression.

3. TBI and aggressive behaviors.

4. TBI and postconcussion symptoms (such as memory problems, dizziness, and irritability).

Limited but suggestive evidence of a link between (among other things):

1. Moderate or severe TBI and psychosis.

2. TBI and decreased alcohol and drug use in the 1–3 years after injury.

Also interesting: Evidence is of insufficient quantity, quality, consistency, or statistical power to permit a conclusion regarding the existence of an association between mild TBI and long-term adverse social functioning, including unemployment, diminished social relationships, and decrease in the ability to live independently.

(Mild TBI is manifested as a brief change in mental status or unconsciousness, whereas severe TBI results in an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia.)