“ The cardiovascular effects of TBI may be a missing link in advancing our efforts to improve long-term quality of life and reducing mortality rates in TBI patients .”
COVER STORY
Traumatic Brain Injury Under-Recognized As a Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease
“ The cardiovascular effects of TBI may be a missing link in advancing our efforts to improve long-term quality of life and reducing mortality rates in TBI patients .”
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Traumatic brain injury ( TBI ) is a leading cause of long-term disability and premature death , especially among military personnel and those playing contact sports . Substantial research has examined acute and chronic neurological consequences of TBI ; however , non-neurological conditions associated with TBI are understudied .
A new review paper by investigators from Mass General
Brigham presents key findings on long-term associations between TBI and cardiovascular disease , highlighting that nervous system dysfunction , neuroinflammation , changes in the brain-gut connection , and post-injury comorbidities may elevate risk of both cardiovascular and cognitive dysfunction in TBI survivors compared to the general population .
The review , published in The