Concussion has become a significant public health concern among Canadian youth, as estimates of pediatric concussion incidence have increased from 340.5 per 100,000 in 2003 to 601.3 in 2010, and 1500 in 2013. This recent surge in concussion diagnosis has led to extensive research into the physiological mechanisms underlying traumatic brain injury, as well as sport-focused policies and return to play protocols following concussion. However, there is a paucity of research regarding social and behavioural risk factors for the development of a concussion. Multiple risk behaviours (MRB) represent a clustering of behaviours that often develop together during adolescence, such as alcohol consumption, illicit drug use and unprotected sex. These behaviours indicate an increased tendency for risk-taking, and have previously been associated with an increased risk for injury. Although the current literature describes a consistent injury risk gradient associated with increasing engagement in MRB, few studies have examined the relationship between engagement in MRB and the incidence of specific injuries. This study further investigates pediatric concussion through two research objectives. The first objective is to describe concussion prevalence, differences in prevalence by age and sex, as well as activity leading to concussion, among Canadian youth in grades 6-10. The second objective is to investigate the relationship between engagement in multiple risk behaviours and concussion within the same population. It is hypothesized that children engaging in greater risky behaviour will exhibit higher concussion prevalence. The results of this study may be used to inform behavioural interventions designed to reduce concussion in youth.
Longitudinal Study of Prenatal Drug Exposure on Fine Motor Development
