Millions of Americans are injured each year. For some it leads to disability and profoundly affects their lives. The good news is injuries are preventable.

The Injury Center at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working to reduce injuries and their impact. CDC’s “Heads Up” initiative focuses on preventing and responding to concussion among young athletes.

More than 38 million youths participate in sports across the U.S. Concussions, caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull, are a commonly reported injury among those who participate in sports.

Even a seemingly mild bump or blow to the head can be serious. While most athletes who sustain a concussion will recover, some will continue to have problems that can affect the way they think, learn, feel and act.

Early identification of concussion is critical, as athletes who return to play too soon after the initial injury are at risk for a repeat concussion. A repeat concussion that occurs before the brain recovers from the first can be dangerous and may slow recovery or increase the chances for long-term problems. Recognition and proper response to concussions when they first occur can help prevent further injury or even death.

The “Heads Up” tool kit materials provide a list of signs and symptoms of concussion and steps to take when a concussion is suspected. Coaches and parents also need to:

•Insist that safety comes first.

•Ensure that athletes always wear the right protective equipment for their activity.

•Make sure that their youth sports league or administrator has a concussion action plan in place.

Coaches, parents and athletes need to recognize and manage injuries, especially concussions, to keep kids on a safe, winning team.

For those who think they have a concussion, don’t hide it. Report it and take time to recover. It’s better to miss one game than the whole season.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.