Over 600 British veterans suffered brain injuries cased by blast in Afghanistan. Professor David Sharp researches the neurological after effects.

Over 600 British troops have suffered brain injuries caused by exploding bombs in Afghanistan.  The Sunday Times investigated the devastating damage caused by blast injury during the 12 year Afghanistan conflict.  Their investigation revealed that of the 616 serviceman and women who had suffered a brain injury, 22 had suffered severe brain injuries.  There are also fears that there may be many other veterans who remain undiagnosed due to the difficulties in identifying such injuries via brain scans.

Medical experts warn that even the most advanced helmets may be unable to protect soldiers from shockwaves that can damage the brains “wiring”. 

The symptoms of mild traumatic brain inury includes headaches, anxiety and dizziness but severe cases can involve debilitating psychiatric problems.  The long term effects of these neurological injuries is still unknown, with US military researchers currently investigating brain tissue samples to ascertain whether sufferers may develop symptoms of dementia similar to boxers.

Professor David Sharp of Imperial College London has studies 19 soldiers who experienced moderate to severe brain injury as a cause of blast in Afghanistan.  His research has revealed that the traumatic brain injuries caused by blast are more likely to cause damage to the lower back brain region which is responsible for motor control and other vital life function, compared to non-blast inuries.  Professor Sharp states "What the newer research suggests is that the injury itself can trigger off this neuro degenerative process in some individuals... They struggle to stay employed within the army.  They can run into difficulty with their home life".

Blast induced brain injury has received less attention than other mental illness suffered by the British troops, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, however these invisible wounds require much needed research and attention.

To read The Times article.