Research, diagnosis, and treatment for traumatic brain injury/concussion in servicemembers.
Chairman Tillis, Ranking Member Gillibrand, and Members of the subcommittee; thank you for the opportunity to discuss the current state of research, diagnosis, and treatment for traumatic brain injuries (TBI). I am accompanied by Dr.
Definition and Diagnosis of TBI
TBI severity is determined at the time of the injury based on the individual's ability to respond to the environment and to questioning. The vast majority of TBI is categorized as mild. Mild TBI, which is commonly called concussion, is usually more difficult to identify than severe TBI, due to the lack of a visible head injury and non-specific symptoms, which can also be seen with other diagnoses, such as acute stress, depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The vast majority of individuals with mild TBI are symptom-free in two to four weeks, but a minority will experience ongoing symptoms, sometimes lasting for several months or longer.
The diagnosis of mild TBI is made historically, determined by the individual's loss or alteration of consciousness following the traumatic event. Efforts to develop objective measures for a mild TBI diagnosis, including advanced imaging and biomarkers, are currently in the research phase and not yet useful in the clinical setting.
Treatment
Evidence-based treatment following mild TBI is determined by symptoms.
The complexity of care needed for Veterans with TBI and polytrauma is best provided through an integrated medical system, as is available in
* Transitional Rehabilitation Programs, focusing on promoting independence, community reintegration and return to work after injury; * Telehealth services for Veterans living at a distance from the medical centers; *
Military and Veteran suicide rates are elevated compared to civilian rates and
Research
As mentioned above
. In a cohort of more than 1,100 Veterans and Servicemembers with persistent difficulties after combat concussions and related issues, more than two-thirds are high functioning, employed and managing well in the community more than seven years after injury. The remaining one-third demonstrate ongoing and increasing difficulties that require significant health care utilization.
. Servicemembers and Veterans with combat-related concussions and associated conditions (PTSD, pain, depression, substance use, elevated suicide risk) represent a unique and high-risk population for long-term difficulties and decline.
. Using big data techniques, among 1.6 million Servicemembers and Veterans, linkages have been identified between elevated lifetime risks for neurodegeneration, including Alzheimer's dementia, for those with TBI.
Evidence of
Read this original document at: https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/download/?id=84A59A6A-A702-4B6E-B052-F9A95FF8A63A&download=1
“Examining the Drug Supply Chain.”
A.M. Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Ghana Reinsurance Company Limited
Advisor News
Annuity News
Health/Employee Benefits News
Life Insurance News