Pa. brain health program helps students re-integrate after traumatic injury

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PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — It's high school football and soccer season — two sports that create an increased risk of brain injury. Health officials are working to raise awareness while highlighting available resources.

Brain injuries can have a major effect on memory, energy levels, even personality. Experts say brain injuries, whether mild or severe, are a serious health issue that can impact a person for a few days or for the rest of their lives.

In Pennsylvania, there is heightened concern for kids. A program called BrainSTEPS offers free training to schools and encourages the development of a concussion management team to help students re-integrate after a traumatic brain injury. 

"Students often return to school with temporary or life-long impairments that can have a significant impact on learning and school performance," said Dr. Brenda Eagan Johnson, a BrainSTEPS program manager.

Health officials say any student still experiencing symptoms four to six weeks after a brain injury should be referred to the BrainSTEPS program.