Although we often associate concussions with professional or elite athletes, head injuries among Canadian children and teenagers are reaching an all time high. Up to 23 percent of adolescents have reported head injuries in the last year and the problem is becoming an epidemic.

17 year old Rowan Stringer was a model high school rugby player: dedicated, motivated and hard working. But her life was cut short when she died after sustaining multiple head injuries during rugby games within just a few days.

Stringer’s case is not an isolated incident. Primary care sports medicine physician Lisa Fisher says that up to 2,000 new concussion cases visited her clinic last year. Fisher says that children and even parents don’t always recognize the signs of concussions and ignore the problem.

The long-term impact of head injuries is worrisome to say the least. One major consequence of head injuries is dementia. Once dementia begins, it cannot be treated, says Dr. Michael Strong, dean of Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University.

Both Strong and Fisher say parents, coaches, and kids need to learn how to identify concussions and risk factors and make sure any child who may have suffered a head injury gets medical help immediately. Kids should also be prevented from returning to the sport until the injury is completely healed.

On a positive note, efforts to raise awareness are improving. Rowan Stringer’s parents have begun a campaign that has encouraged the first proposed Ontario legislation to improve awareness and treatment of concussions. Although the U.S. has many laws regarding how to manage youth brain injuries, this will be the first legislation in Canada.

Because head injuries are serious, they must be taken care of quickly. If you suspect that your child has sustained a brain injury, visit your primary care physician promptly. If you receive a medical report, it may help you receive proper compensation for any injuries if symptoms arise in the future.

To read more about brain injury legislation, click here. If you have questions about your legal rights if your child has experienced a brain injury, consult with a brain injury lawyer.