World Trauma Day is observed on October 17 each year with the aim to raise awareness about the impact of traumatic injuries on global health. The purpose is to educate about how often traumatic injuries occur and to encourage for preventive measures.
UNDERSTANDING BRAIN TRAUMA
Brain trauma can result from several causes such as falls, car accidents, sports injuries, and violent assaults leading to dizziness, headaches, loss of consciousness, confusion, and memory loss.
Brain trauma can be challenging and needs timely and accurate detection. Treatment options for brain trauma may involve medication, surgery or rehabilitation. Medications such as anti-seizure drugs or coma-inducing drugs may be administered preventing damage, while surgery is preferred in cases with blood clots. Rehabilitation aims to help patients return to their normal daily activities.
At a global level, millions are affected every year with brain trauma that has significant impact on the quality of life. This also results in economic burden like healthcare costs, lost wages, and decreased productivity.
Preventative measures like wearing protective gear, helmets and following safety guidelines should be initiated and quick and effective intervention by experienced neurosurgeons is crucial.
World Trauma Day is a day marked to raise awareness about the impact of injuries and deaths caused by trauma. It is a day to recognise the importance of preventing trauma and to promote early management and rehabilitation. Brain and spine traumas are among the most severe forms of trauma, and understanding their global impact is crucial.
About 69 million people worldwide are affected by traumatic brain injuries each year. Though the deaths due to brain trauma are low, disability and long-term effects are high. Brain trauma can lead to severe cognitive and motor impairments, behavioural changes, and mental health disorders.
Brain trauma can lead to a decreased quality of life, fear of recurrence, social isolation, and an increased dependence on others.
UNDERSTANDING SPINE TRAUMA
Spine trauma affects around 500,000 people worldwide each year. It can cause paralysis, loss of sensation or motor function, and chronic pain. It is another form of injury that can have serious long-term effects on individuals and their families and leads to long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial stress.
Spine trauma requires expensive medical care, specialised equipment and devices, and rehabilitation services. It can also lead to disability, loss of productivity, and decreased quality of life.
PREVENTION AND REHABILITATION
Preventing trauma is the most effective way to reduce the global burden of brain and spine injuries. Promoting safety awareness, regulating traffic, and improving infrastructure can help prevent falls, road traffic accidents, and other traumatic events.
Quality rehabilitation services and proper medical care can help individuals regain independence, improve their physical and psychological well-being, and reintegrate into society.
Brain and spine traumas are among the most severe and can have serious long-term effects. Understanding the impact of trauma and raising is crucial to preventing it advocating for better care and services.
[The writer is senior consultant brain and spine surgeon at Lake View Hospital in Belagavi]
