Homeless people far more likely to suffer traumatic brain injuries, UBC study shows

Homeless people are far more likely to have suffered brain injuries than the average population, a new UBC-led study has shown.

The results suggest that 53% of homeless people experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and that 25% experience a moderate or severe TBI in their lifetimes.

Researchers looked at 38 studies published between 1995 and 2018 for their meta-analysis, which has been published in The Lancet Public Health.

They were unable to determine, however, whether TBIs were responsible for increasing the risk of homelessness or if homelessness increases the risk of TBIs.

But they did find out that prevalence of TBIs in homeless people (and those in unstable housing situations) could be up to four times higher than the general population.

For moderate to severe TBIs, prevalence could be nearly 10 times higher among homeless people.

“More research is definitely needed,” Dr William Panenka, assistant professor in the UBC faculty of medicine, said.

“TBI is an under-appreciated and significant factor in the health and functioning of this vulnerable group of people.”

PhD student Jacob Stubbs, meanwhile, said the results were “striking.”

“Our work emphasizes that healthcare workers be aware of the burden of TBI in this population, and how it relates to health and functioning,” he added.

TBIs can range from a mild concussion to a severe head injury.

It can be caused by a blow to the head, a wound that breaks through the skull, a fall or another injury that shakes the brain and causes bruising, swelling or the tearing of brain tissue.

Consequences can include effects on movement, learning, speaking and much else.

TBIs are associated with poorer self-reported physical and mental health as well as suicidality.

Memory can be affected too.

They are also associated with an increased involvement in the criminal justice system.