U.S. Government Tackles Traumatic Brain Injury Epidemic

Recently, President Obama announced plans for a $100 million research project called the BRAIN Initiative, an acronym for the Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies. The goal of the initiative is to assist in the acceleration of technology development to better study the brain and nerve cell function. Scientists hope that the funding allows them to create the tools to understand how the brain processes data, retains memory and affects personality and behavior.

In his announcement, the president noted that advancing our knowledge of the brain may solve some of the mysteries of brain diseases, including Parkinson’s and epilepsy. He also expressed hope that BRAIN Initiative research may lead to the eventual reversal of traumatic brain injuries, which continue to be a serious public health problem. According to research cited by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1.7 million traumatic brain injuries occur on an annual basis either as an isolated injury or along with other injuries. Of those individuals, about 52,000 die and 275,000 are hospitalized as a result of their injuries.

The BRAIN Initiative received initial praise from many neuroscientists and brain researchers across the country. It is also received criticism from those who believe that a bureaucratic government project is not the right approach for this type of scientific endeavor and that excessive government spending should be curtailed during these trying economic times. The general consensus, however, is that the BRAIN Initiative is a bold endeavor to be watched eagerly in the years to come.

Traumatic brain injury victims and their loved ones often don’t know where to turn for support. An experienced traumatic brain injury lawyer is essential in obtaining just compensation for your injuries. At the Law Office of J. Allan Brown, L.L.C., we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support to the victims of traumatic brain injuries.