New Mexicans can lower their risk for brain injuries

SANTA FE – Every nine seconds someone in the United States sustains a brain injury.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can cause death or lead to long term impacts including impaired thinking or memory, impaired movement, and emotional changes. 

According to the New Mexico Department of Health’s (NMDOH) Office of Injury and Violence Prevention, New Mexico has a significantly higher death rate from traumatic brain injuries than the national average. In 2023, there were approximately 584 TBI-related deaths in the state, with a death rate that was nearly 39% higher than the U.S. rate. In 2023, the TBI death rate was highest for adults 85 years and older in the state.

“Brain injuries are most commonly caused by motor vehicle accidents and athletic activities, but they can also occur from everyday incidents, such as a fall at home,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, Chief Medical Officer for NMDOH. “If you or someone you love has suffered a head injury, it’s important to seek medical care right away.” 

To lower the risk of brain injuries, NMDOH recommends some simple prevention techniques:

• Properly use protective equipment and safe playing techniques in sports and recreation activities.  
• Wear a seatbelt every time you are in an automobile no matter how short the trip and make sure passengers also buckle up (including properly securing children in car seats).  
• Wear a helmet when riding an off-highway vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle and while horseback riding or skiing.  
• Older adults should talk to their doctor about fall risk and prevention, engage in strength and balance exercises, get regular eye exams and eliminate trip hazards in your home.

For more information on traumatic brain injuries, visit: Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion | Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion | CDC. 

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Los nuevomexicanos pueden reducir el riesgo de sufrir lesiones cerebrales