There were 19,850 brain injury-related hospitalizations for individuals ages 15 to 24, in 2018. This is a decrease from 22,015 brain injury-related hospitalizations for this age group in 2017. Young adults between the ages of 25–34 also had a decrease in brain injury-related hospitalizations from 21,955 in 2017 to 21,010 in 2018. Falls from horseback represent 42 percent to 82 percent of the number of people injured from horse-related injury events. Falls from horseback often involve injury to the head, resulting in a concussion or intracranial hemorrhage. Horse kicks to the person during unmounting or horse care have also resulted in head trauma. It is estimated that 120,000 Missourians have a long-term disability due to brain injury. Survivors and families report a significant increase in health conditions post-injury. The report increases include depression, sleep disorders, chronic pain, PTSD, other mental health conditions, and seizures. Prevention is the best cure for brain injury, including concussions or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). Safety and prevention practices include wearing a helmet, wearing a seatbelt, and avoiding driving while distracted as well as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. | 