Understanding the Misconceptions about Traumatic Brain Injury among Indian Young Adults

Abstract

Abstract Background Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) pose significant challenges globally. The implementation of TBI prevention programs is highly reliant on the prevalent misconceptions. There is a paucity of research exploring the misconceptions regarding TBIs among young adults in India. Therefore, the present study explores the prevalence and nature of misconceptions regarding TBIs among young adults. Materials and Methods This prospective survey study, with 150 participants aged 18 to 25 years, utilized the Common Misconceptions about Traumatic Brain Injury questionnaire comprising 40 items across 7 domains. The data was analyzed using Jamovi (2.3.28 solid). Results The results revealed that the participants have high rates of misconception regarding brain injury sequelae, brain damage, and seatbelt prevention and low rates regarding the posttraumatic amnesia. Overall, females exhibited a higher rate of misconceptions compared with males. Higher years of education were associated with lesser misconceptions. Prior exposure to TBI had no significant impact on overall awareness of TBI. Conclusion This study highlights important misconceptions about TBIs among young adults. Education and gender might play a vital role in these misconceptions. These findings might inform the development of preventive modules for TBIs and to enhance their effectiveness.