Brain injury: Ohio’s silent public health crisis

        March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on the staggering impact of brain injuries on Ohioans and the urgent need for increased resources and support.
        In Ohio, one in four residents has experienced at least one traumatic brain injury (TBI) in their lifetime, affecting more than 1.6 million individuals, according to the Brain Injury Association of Ohio, a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for brain injury survivors and their families through advocacy, supportive services, education and connection to vital resources.
        Additionally, Ohio has seen the highest increase in stroke prevalence nationwide over the past decade. Despite the widespread impact of brain injuries, Ohio invests only 5 cents per resident in supports and services for survivors, This is a stark contrast to neighboring states such as Pennsylvania (42 cents per resident), Indiana (94 cents per resident), West Virginia ($1.46 per resident), and Kentucky ($5.27 per resident). Due to this lack of funding, Ohioans with brain injuries face significant challenges accessing the resources they need to recover, maintain independence, and participate fully in their communities.
        “Brain injury is not a one-time event—it is a chronic condition that often affects individuals for the rest of their lives,” said Lauren Holly, executive director at the Brain Injury Association of Ohio. “Beyond the survivor, brain injuries have a profound ripple effect on families and caregivers, many of whom must leave their jobs to provide full-time care. Ohio must do more to ensure survivors and their loved ones receive the support they desperately need.”
        Brain injury can result from a variety of causes, including traumatic brain injuries from falls, car accidents, or sports injuries, strokes, brain tumors, and even drug overdoses. No one is immune –– brain injury does not discriminate, and anyone can be affected at any time.
        Throughout March, the Brain Injury Association of Ohio and advocates across the state are working to raise awareness and push for increased funding to better serve Ohio’s brain injury community. Events, educational initiatives, and fundraising efforts will take place to highlight the urgent needs of survivors and their families.
        To learn more about brain injury, available resources, or how to help, visit biaoh.org or follow the Brain Injury Association of Ohio on social media.