December 21, 2022 | By Greene Broillet & Wheeler
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be a life-altering event. Even mild brain injuries can have long-term consequences, including an increased risk of developing dementia. This was the conclusion of a research study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine and published in JAMA Neurology.
The researchers looked at data from a vast cohort with a mean baseline age of 54 years. They found that 25 years after sustaining a brain injury, these individuals are up to 1.25 times more likely to develop dementia than those who have not had a TBI. Similarly, two or more prior head injuries are linked to double the risk of dementia compared to those without a head injury history.
Interestingly, the risk seemed to increase as time went on: 15 years after sustaining a TBI, there was still an 18% higher likelihood of developing dementia; 10 years after sustaining a TBI, there was a 26% increased risk; and 5 years after sustaining a TBI, there was a 32% higher risk for developing dementia.
Further research may be able to identify potential treatments or preventive measures for individuals who have had head trauma.
If you or a loved one have sustained a traumatic brain injury due to negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical costs, pain and suffering, and other losses. Contact us today so we can discuss the details of your case in further detail. Our team is available to provide legal advice and assistance with filing a claim. Don’t wait any longer – get the justice you deserve today. We are here to help you every step of the way.