Are Women Biologically More Susceptible to Concussion or TBI? Are Men More Likely to Suffer a Concussion or TBI?
According to a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, adult men are more than twice (2.22 times) as likely to suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) than women. This would seem to indicate that men are more susceptible to TBI, that they have biological differences that incline them toward TBI. Studies, though, generally come to a different conclusion. While the greater majority of adults who seek treatment after a bump or blow to the head are male, there are other factors that contribute to this. The highest rates of concussion for adults (particularly older adults) are among women.
What’s the Difference Between Sex and Gender?
When analyzing susceptibility to TBI, sex relates to genetic differences, including physical anatomy, hormonal levels, and metabolism rates, as well as brain size and skull thickness. On average, the adult male brain is about 10-15% larger than the adult female brain. Women’s skulls tend to be thicker and wider than men’s skulls, though.
Gender, on the other hand, addresses cultural and social differences between women and men, such as the propensity for engaging in behaviors that increase the likelihood of TBI.
What Does the Research Indicate About Differences Between Men and Women with Respect to TBI?
Studies consistently show that men are much more likely to require hospitalization for a TBI, particular men between 20 and 50. The hospitalization rates start to even out after age 50. The data indicates, though, that this is because young adult males are far more likely to put themselves in situations where they are at risk of TBI, such as:
- Contact sports
- Joyriding or other reckless driving
- Horsing around
Research confirms, though, that the actual rate of concussion/TBI is higher in young adult women than in young adult men. Women simply don’t engage in the same level of risky behavior. Researchers admit, though, that the data may be misleading, as women are much more likely to seek treatment for a concussion than men (and men are more likely to leave a hospital against medical advice than women).
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion or TBI. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas, and San Antonio.
