What typically causes traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in children?

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in children are most commonly associated with external physical forces, making motor vehicle accidents and falls the leading causes. In pediatric populations, falls, such as from playground equipment or while climbing, represent a significant risk due to children's active lifestyles and developmental changes that may affect their balance and coordination. Additionally, motor vehicle accidents are a prominent cause of TBI due to the potential for serious impacts that can occur during a collision, particularly when children are passengers or pedestrians.

While excessive screen time could affect children's health in various ways, it does not directly lead to the acute physical consequences associated with traumatic brain injuries. Genetic factors and chronic illnesses can contribute to a child's overall health or predisposition to certain conditions, but they are not the immediate causes of traumatic brain injury. The direct physical impact from falls and collisions is what primarily results in TBIs among children.