New research shows the effects of traumatic brain injuries among youth are more extensive than previously thought. According to this recent study, nearly 20 percent of Ontario students in Grades 7 through 12 have suffered from some form of traumatic brain injury. The definition includes any students who have either lost consciousness for more than 10 seconds or stayed at a hospital overnight because of head trauma.

Sports are the leading cause of brain injuries among youth, hockey and soccer in particular. Motor vehicle accidents and dangerous property conditions are other common causes. Among adults, motor vehicle and workplace accidents are among the leading causes.