WASHINGTON, D.C. | May 20, 2010 - We’re here this morning to
discuss research recently conducted by the Government
Accountability Office into concussions among high school
athletes. The findings of the GAO will be illuminated by experts
in the field and individuals who have firsthand experience with
this type of injury. Concussions are functional traumatic brain
injuries suffered as a result of force – for instance, they
could be caused by a collision of the head or a blow to the
body. Although the federal government is not responsible for the
treatment or tracking of this type of injury, concussions are of
interest to this committee because of their implications for
students. Hearings such as this provide an opportunity to shine
a spotlight on the issues dealt with by states and local
communities and highlight the resources and best practices
available to help students, parents, coaches, and school leaders
prevent these injuries and respond appropriately when they do
occur. Research in this area is ongoing,