Study finds traumatic brain injury can lead to early death
A new study out of the University of Oxford in England has found that those who suffer from a traumatic brain injury are at a higher risk of premature death. Researchers with the study ultimately call for increased monitoring of those who suffer these injuries to help watch for red flags that could signal a patient is at an increased risk of early death.
More information on the link between brain injury and premature death
This most recent study, titled Brain Injuries May Raise Risk of Early Death, was reviewed online by medical professionals with WebMD. According to the researchers’ findings, victims are three times more likely to suffer from premature death than those who do not have a traumatic brain injury.
The study focused on over 200,000 patients from Sweden who suffered from a traumatic brain injury between 1969 and 2009. Within this group, over 11,000 patients died prematurely with over 20 percent dying over six months after receiving the injury.
Importance of the study
Traumatic brain injuries can result from a variety of traumas, including car accidents, assaults, slip and fall accidents and workplace accidents. Whatever the cause of the injury, results from the study can help victims to receive the compensation they deserve to help cover the high cost of care and treatment.
In particular, based on this study researchers are recommending increased monitoring of patients with these injuries for risk factors that could lead to early death. These risk factors include development of depression and potential suicidal thoughts. Having a monitoring system in place would allow medical professionals the opportunity to intervene before it is too late.
Greater implications
This is just one study in a growing group finding that the negative implications connected to brain injuries are much larger than initially thought. Previous studies have connected these injuries to an increased likelihood of developing degenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s. In fact, a study conducted with the United States National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health found evidence of ongoing damage within the brain up to 18 years after the initial trauma.
Since professionals are still uncertain of the extent of damage connected to traumatic brain injuries, those who experience these injuries must take them seriously. If the injury is the result of another’s negligent or reckless act, compensation may be available to help cover the cost of treatment. Contact an experienced traumatic brain injury lawyer to discuss your case and better ensure your legal rights and remedies are protected.