Arizona is one of 21 states that have set strict concussion laws for student athletes. SB 1521 was signed by Gov. Brewer this year. The measure aims to address the prevention, risk and treatment of sports-related concussion, which are becoming more common in youth sports.
Children account for 90 percent of emergency room visits for sports-related concussions, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Concussions – brain injuries from a bump, blow or strike to the head – can be the result from a fall, sports activity and also car accidents. Significant movement of the brain in any direction can cause you to lose consciousness. Complications can arise in both the short-term and long-term and can include dizziness, headaches, mood changes, and in some cases even death.
The new law – supported by the medical community and professional athletes – will require schools to educate coaches, students and parents about the dangers of concussions. More importantly, athletes that have sustained a head injury will be barred from play until they’re cleared by a medical professional.
Essentially, the bill will help educate and protect kids of all ages in all sports from suffering serious head injuries.
For more information, please visit the Sports Concussion Institute (SCI), which was designed to address the comprehensive needs of the athlete who has sustained a concussion.
Comments for this article are closed.