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Recognizing March 2021 as Brain Injury Awareness Month to increase understanding of chronic brain injury, reduce stigma, showcase the diversity of injury across demographics, and improve care and support.
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WHEREAS, An acquired brain injury (ABI) occurs after birth and is not congenital, degenerative, or hereditary. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by trauma to the brain from an outside force. Concussion is a type of TBI that most often causes temporary effects, including headaches and problems with memory, balance, concentration, and coordination; and
WHEREAS, In the United States, about 5.3 million adults and children, or 1 in 60 people, live with a permanent brain injury. About 3.6 million people sustain an ABI each year, and about 2.8 million people sustain a TBI each year; and
WHEREAS, More than 210,000 children and adults in Pennsylvania are living with a disability due to TBI; and
WHEREAS, The leading causes of ABI are electric shock, infectious disease, tumors, lightning strikes, deprivation of oxygen, substance abuse, seizure disorder, toxic exposure, and stroke. The leading causes of TBI are falls, blows to the head, assaults, and vehicles; and
WHEREAS, There is no specific cure for concussions besides rest or rehabilitation, and for about 50% of people with a severe brain injury, brain surgery is necessary; and
WHEREAS, The theme for Brain Injury Awareness Month 2021 is #MoreThanMyBrainInjury to help educate others on what it's like to live with a brain injury, reducing stigma, and increasing awareness of brain injuries; and
WHEREAS, The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges for students suffering from brain injuries. The collaboration required between teachers and families is inhibited by distance learning, and lack of daily structure can cause increased dysregulation and negative behaviors, further resulting in stress on the student and adult. Additionally, too much screen time results in eye strain, increased...
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