These researchers examined the prevalence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a male prison population in New Zealand and sought to determine any associations between prevalence and age, ethnicity, offence type, security classification and sentence length. 1054 offenders admitted to a new Corrections Facility over a 6-month period (May through November 2015) completed a TBI history screen. Most (63.7%) had sustained ≥1 TBI in their lifetime; one-third (32.5%) had experienced multiple injuries. One-fifth of the cohort had experienced their first TBI injury before the age of 15 years. A regression model was able to correctly classify 66.9% of cases and revealed that being of Māori ethnicity or being imprisoned for violent, sexual or burglary offences were independent predictors of TBI (χ2= 9.86; p=0.28).
Reading these papers together, you can’t help thinking that many of these men in prison are not even aware that they may have experienced TBI in the perinatal period. In both studies, the authors have gone beyond mere description to providing clear recommendations about how we reduce TBI and the long-term, negative consequences.
Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood
Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.
Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.
Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.
