Number of prior concussions predict poorer concussion care seeking in military cadets. (10th November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schmidt, Julianne D.; Anderson, Melissa; Weber Rawlins, Michelle; Foster, Craig A.; Johnson, Brian R.; D'Lauro, Christopher
• Is Part Of: Brain injury. Volume 35:Number 12/13(2021)
• Page Start: 1598
• Page End: 1606
• Publication Date: 2021-11-10
• Subjects: Concussion non-disclosure -- concussion reporting -- mild traumatic brain injury; Brain damage -- Periodicals; Brain -- Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Brain Injuries -- Periodicals; 617.481
• DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2021.1976418
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0269-9052

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Primary objective: To determine whether concussion history predicts concussion care seeking, self-management practices, or confidence to recognize/report. Research design:Cross-sectional. Methods & procedures: 706 United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) cadets completed survey items regarding concussion history (0, 1, 2, 3+), likelihood of reporting a concussion, self-management, and confidence to recognize/report. We used multivariate ordinal and binary logistic regression models to predict responses using concussion history, sex, and race. Main outcomes & results: cadets with 1 (OR = 0.59, 95%CI:0.43–0.82), 2 (OR = 0.55, 95%CI:0.31–0.98), or 3+ (OR = 0.36, 95%CI:0.17–0.78) concussions while at USAFA had respective 41%, 45%, and 64% lower likelihood to report the concussion scenario (ref = no history, p < .001). USAFA cadets with more extensive concussion histories had higher prevalence of not seeking care for a concussion ( p < .001); more strongly endorsed self-management ( p = .001–0.010); and had greater confidence in their ability to recognize a concussion ( p = .005), but not to report ( p = .198–0.413). Conclusions: Prior concussion experiences may deter cadets from seeking medical care for future concussions. Interventions should address concussion history and clinicians should consider how the post-concussion management process might deter care seeking.