ASSOCIATION OF TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY WITH SUBSEQUENT NEUROLOGICAL AND PSYCHIATRIC DISEASE

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant public health concern, affecting millions of individuals worldwide each year. Recent research has suggested that TBI may be associated with an increased risk of subsequent neurological and psychiatric diseases, including dementia, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. To assess the strength of this association, we conducted a meta-analysis of 43 studies that examined the link between TBI and subsequent neurological and psychiatric disease. Our results demonstrate a significant association between TBI and increased risk of dementia, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, with effect sizes ranging from moderate to large. Subgroup analyses further suggest that the association may be stronger in individuals with more severe TBI, older age, and longer time since injury. These findings highlight the importance of preventing and treating TBI, as well as providing appropriate follow-up care to individuals who have sustained a TBI.