Prevalence and Correlates of Suspected and Diagnosed Traumatic Brain Injuries among US School-Aged Children

Abstract

ObjectiveTo (1) estimate the lifetime prevalence of suspected and diagnosed TBI based on parent report overall and select sociodemographic characteristics; and (2) describe differences in prevalence of health conditions and health-related risk factors by whether a child had a lifetime history of diagnosed TBI. Study DesignWe analyzed data from the 2020 National Survey of Children’s Health, a cross-sectional address-based survey of U.S. households. A categorical variable was created based on parent responses to 3 questions inquiring about their suspicion of their child having a brain injury, if they sought medical care, and if the healthcare provider provided a diagnosis. Parents were also asked to report on their child’s additional health conditions, functional indicators, school and social factors, and healthcare access and service utilization. ResultsThe prevalence of lifetime diagnosed TBI was 4.2% (95% CI: 3.8, 4.5). Children with a parent-reported lifetime history of diagnosed TBI were more likely to have a variety of health conditions, special healthcare needs, disabilities, activity limitations, missed days of school, and unmet care coordination needs, compared to those without a history. However, they were more likely to have a usual source of sick care and to receive more health-related services. Conclusions and RelevanceFor school-aged children, a history of TBI is associated with parent reported health needs and conditions, as well as missed days from school. It is particularly important for parents to seek care when they suspect their child has experienced a TBI to receive a diagnosis and monitor the impacts of the TBI.