Brain injuries can happen suddenly, without warning, and can have significant health, social, emotional and financial consequences. But many brain injuries can also be avoided. For this reason, each June, Brain Injury Awareness Month highlights the importance of understanding the effects and causes of brain injury to Canadians.
Canadians can help protect themselves from brain injury by:
- Operating motor vehicles safely and not being distracted by mobile devices and texting;
- Wearing the proper headgear for sports such as hockey, football and biking;
- Taking action to prevent falls among older adults in their homes and communities;
- Ensuring that play areas are clear of hazards; and
- Following proper safety procedures when taking part in organized sports and other activities.
Research also plays an important role in expanding our understanding of the impact of brain injuries. This is why in 2011, the Government of Canada committed $100 million over six years to support the Brain Canada Foundation and establish the Canada Brain Research Fund. This funding will be used to help research brain functions, mental illness, and brain repair, as well as recovery techniques.
Through the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR), the Government of Canada is currently funding 19 research projects on mild traumatic brain injury (concussion), which is the most common form of traumatic brain injury. These projects focus on new techniques to prevent, diagnose, treat and manage concussions with the hope of improving the recovery time and long-term health of Canadians with brain injuries. Over the last decade CIHR has invested over $20 million in traumatic brain injury research.
Brain injury can happen to anyone; remember to be safe. For more tips on staying safe and preventing injury, visit the Government of Canada's injury prevention page.
Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
Government of Canada