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CDC defines a traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a disruption in the normal function of the brain that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or penetrating head injury. Everyone is at risk for a TBI, especially children and older adults.

CDC’s research and programs work to prevent TBIs and help people recognize, respond, and recover if a TBI occurs.

Get the Facts

  • In 2013, there were: 2.5 million emergency department visits related to TBI, 282,000 hospitaliztions related to TBI, 56,000 deaths related to TBI
  • Americans age 75 and older have the highest rates of TBI-related hospitalizations and deaths.
  • Rocket Blades The Brain Safety Game Kids 6-8 Available on the App Store
  • Traumatic Brain Injury-Related Emergency Department Visits, Hospitalizations, and Deaths - United States 2007 and 2013

Basic Info

Get the facts, signs and symptoms, response, recovery, prevention

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Data & Statistics

TBI data and statistics on rates of TBI-related deaths, ER visits, hospitalizations

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Surveillance

Getting answers and gathering information about concussion

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Connect with the CDC Injury Center

A Head for the Future - A traumatic brain injury prevention initiative for the military community, Learn more.

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