Presenter
Steve Jacob
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
This study examines trends in traumatic brain injury (TBI) related emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, and deaths in Rhode Island from 2019 to 2023 to identify high-risk populations and inform targeted prevention strategies. We analyzed statewide TBI fatality, hospital discharge, and ED visit data from all Rhode Island hospitals. Injuries were classified using the CDC TBI case definition based on ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. Counts and crude annual rates were calculated using Rhode Island population estimates and stratified by sex and age group. While TBI hospitalization rates declined, males were hospitalized at nearly twice the rate of females. ED visits decreased from 2,880 in 2019 to 1,867 in 2020, then increased to 2,185 by 2023. In 2023, adults aged 25-34 had the highest number of ED visits, followed by those aged 55-64. Despite declines in utilization, TBI-related mortality remained elevated among older adults. These findings show that TBI remains a substantial source of healthcare utilization in Rhode Island, particularly among males and older adults. Targeted prevention strategies, such as assistive device assessments, occupational safety training, and sports and recreation safety initiatives, are needed to reduce disparities. This study provides updated state-level evidence to support population-specific interventions that reduce TBI-related ED visits, hospitalizations, and deaths while improving safety and quality of life for those most at risk.
Faculty Mentor
Samantha Rosenthal, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Jacob, Steve, "Trends and Demographic Patterns of TBI, 2019-2023" (2026). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 333.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/333
