Citation

Hill-Wall T, McCausland K, Thomas E, Norman R, Bullen J, Cowen G. Concussion 2024; 9(1): CNC113.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2024, The Drake Foundation, Publisher Future Medicine)

DOI

10.2217/cnc-2023-0012

PMID

38939826

PMCID

PMC11204175

Abstract

AIM: Indigenous Australians have higher rates of traumatic brain injury, with 74-90% of such injuries being concussion. This study explores concussion awareness and knowledge in Aboriginal Western Australians with high health literacy. MATERIALS & METHODS: Participants, aged 18-65 years, engaged in research topic yarning, and thematic analysis of the qualitative data then undertaken.

RESULTS: There was awareness that direct head trauma can result in concussion, but a lack of differentiation between concussion and other head injuries. Knowledge was gained from sport, media or lived-experience. Symptom minimization and diversity of concussion symptoms prevented participants from seeking medical treatment. This was exacerbated by a mistrust of the medical system.

CONCLUSION: Research findings highlight knowledge and service gaps where co-designed strategies can be targeted.

Language: en

Keywords

traumatic brain injury; concussion; First Nations; mild traumatic brain injury; Aboriginal; indigenous; mTBI; Torres Strait Islander