An Analysis on How Socioeconomic and Geographical Factors Influence Recognition of Sport Related Concussion in the Lone Star State.

OBJECTIVE

To describe how sociodemographic factors may impact the reported distribution of Sport related concussion (SRC) in high-school sports.

INTRODUCTION

SRC may affect athletes' daily functioning and ability perform academically. Consideration of sociodemographic factors in the reporting of SRC are needed to address possible inequities in concussion diagnosis.

METHODS

This review of data from the ConTex2 database identified 6377 cases of SRC among high-school athletes who were then analyzed by geographic location and socioeconomic status.

RESULTS

Reports of SRC by geographic location revealed cities had a smaller percentage of total SRC than suburbs in swimming/diving, water polo, wrestling, and marching band. Lower SES schools had a smaller percentage of reported SRC in cheerleading and marching band. Similarly, lower incidence rates of SRC were found in schools in cities and of lower SES.

CONCLUSION

Consideration of sociodemographic factors in SRC may provide more equitable allocation of resources and improve concussion care for all student athletes.