Here are five important takeaways from the Truven/NPR poll.
1. Approximately 23 percent of those surveyed reported suffering a concussion at some point in their lives. Over 75 percent of those injured reported seeking medical treatment after the injury.
2. While about 50 percent of those reporting concussions said they’d only experienced one, approximately 16 percent stated they’d incurred four or more concussions throughout their lives.
3. Nearly a third of those experiencing concussion stated they’d suffered long-term effects post-injury. Headaches were the most common long-term effect reported, but other side effects included problems with concentration, memory, balance and coordination.
4. Of those reporting concussions, 43 percent said the injury occurred while engaging in contact sports, though the proportions of this percentage varied by age. Close to two-thirds of those polled under the age of 35 reported a connection between the injury and contact sports, while that number dipped to 15 percent in individuals over 65.
5. Regarding recent attention given to head trauma, participants were asked if said attention was appropriate for the scope of the problem or overblown. Approximately 11 percent stated that attention was exaggerated, 81 percent said it was appropriate and 7 percent weren’t sure.
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